Post-doctoral fellow in Evolutionary biology

Subject description

The postdoctoral fellow is expected to conduct conceptual and philosophical analyses of research in evolutionary biology. 

Evolutionary biology is a heterogeneous research area, characterized by the existence of multiple research agendas with their own explanatory aims and standards. Many of the fundamental problems in evolutionary biology are difficult to resolve unless theoretical and empirical research is informed by conceptual analyses. This applies to, for example, the evolution of evolvability and the relationship between adaptability and adaptation; problems ultimately concerned with how the organism itself – its development, physiology and behaviour – contributes to evolution. 

This project will advance evolutionary biology by exploring how biologists make progress on such topics. For example, what kind of representations and explanatory strategies are needed, and how do they differ from more traditional research on evolution? What areas of biology are relevant and how can new collaborations be formed and disputes be resolved? What are exemplars of research that advance the field, and why are those successful? The postdoctoral fellow will have the opportunity to develop their own line of inquiry into any of these or related problems.

Work duties

The main duties involved in a post-doctoral posistion is to conduct research. Specific work duties include the following:

• Develop specific project aims in collaboration with the host
• Carry out conceptual, philosophical and/or historical analyses of theory, methods or practice in evolutionary biology
• Employ quantitative methods to study theory change
• Acquire and further develop skills and knowledge in key areas of evolutionary biology (e.g., with respect to evolutionary genomics, comparative methods, or evolutionary developmental biology)
• Engage with students, postdoctoral and senior researchers to promote productive exchange between science and philosophy of science 

The position includes the opportunity for three weeks of training in higher education teaching and learning.

Qualification requirements 

Appointment to a post-doctoral position requires that the applicant has a PhD, or an international degree deemed equivalent to a PhD, in the subject area, completed no more than three years before the date of employment decision. Under special circumstances, the doctoral degree can have been completed earlier. 

Specific requirements

• PhD in evolutionary biology
• M.A. in philosophy of science
• Excellent oral and written proficiency in English.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and conduct high quality research in evolutionary biology and philosophy of science.
• Demonstrated ability to work both independently and in teams of researchers.
• A strong record of publishing in internationally recognized scientific journals.
• Experience and knowledge of the following areas are desirable: adaptive evolution, evolvability, phenotypic plasticity, animal colouration

Assessment criteria and other qualifications

This is a career development position primarily focused on research. The position is intended as an initial step in a career, and the assessment of the applicants will primarily be based on their research qualifications and potential as researchers.

Particular emphasis will be placed on research skills within the subject.

Consideration will also be given to good collaborative skills, drive and independence, and how the applicant’s experience and skills complement and strengthen ongoing research within the department, and how they stand to contribute to its future development.

Terms of employment

This is a full-time, fixed-term employment of a maximum of three years. The period of employment is determined in accordance with the agreement “Avtal om tidsbegränsad anställning som postdoktor” (“Agreement on fixed-term employment as a post-doctoral fellow”) between Lund University, SACO-S and OFR/S, dated 1st February 2022.

Instructions on how to apply

Applications shall be written in English and be compiled into a PDF-file containing:

• A cover letter explaining the applicant’s background, research interests and motivation for applying to this position (max 1 page).
• A project proposal, outlining a project in the philosophy of evolutionary biology (max 2 pages)
• A CV that includes publications.
• Contact information for two referees.
   

For informal discussions about the position, please contact Prof Tobias Uller (tobias.uller@biol.lu.se). For information on the host group and their research, please visit https://feiner-uller-group.se/.