Researcher in Biology

Subject description

We are seeking a qualified researcher in ecotoxicology and neuroecology to participate in and lead studies within our ongoing projects and collaborations, including two interdisciplinary initiatives aimed at mapping and investigating the effects of pesticide exposure on non-target organisms, such as pollinating insects.
The work includes toxicity studies of individual and combined pesticides, encompassing planning, method development, rearing, maintenance, execution, and documentation, focusing on Eristalis tenax, Pieris napi, and Bombus terrestris.

The researcher is also expected to develop a set of computer-generated stimuli and data acquisition tools in Matlab, suitable for quantifying neuronal responses in the insect visual system to specific features. These tools will be used to identify neurons in the insect brain that are selective for features such as small objects, lines, or edges in visual scenes. Such neurons have previously been described in several insect groups (Diptera, Odonata), but the main focus of this project is to identify analogs or homologs of these neurons in the lobula complex of Hymenoptera, particularly in solitary bees.
This will require the application of intracellular recording techniques, fluorescent dye injection, and subsequent microscopic analysis to characterize the neuroanatomy of these neurons.

Work duties

The tasks include, for example:

• Research in ecotoxicology, neuroecology, and electrophysiology
• Supervision
• Meetings with project groups, both within and outside Lund University, and providing updates on project progress.
• Some administrative duties related to the tasks above.

 Qualification requirements

Applicants must have:

• PhD degree obtained, doctoral thesis in Biology
• Completed postdoctoral training
• Excellent proficiency in English, both spoken and written
• Practical and theoretical experience in toxicological testing on insects
• Experience in systematic literature review work
• Experience in electrophysiology of invertebrates
• Experience in intracellular electrophysiological recording
• Experience in intracellular fluorescent labeling techniques
• Extensive expertise in Matlab programming, particularly in GUI design and hardware interfacing with external lab equipment

Assessment criteria and other qualifications

• Previous experience in ecotoxicological or toxicological studies with the organisms used in the project
• Supervision or similar experience
• This research will be conducted in an interdisciplinary and collaborative environment, so documented ability to strengthen group cohesion and teamwork is a merit
• Experience in quantifying insect behavior

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

Permanent position starting 22nd April 2025, a probationary period of 6 months may be applicable.

The scope of the employment: 100%

Contact person to be written in the advertisement. Lina Herbertsson, lina.herbertsson@biol.lu.se

Instructions on how to apply

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

• Curriculum Vitae (CV) including a list of publications.
• A general description of previous research work and how this experience will contribute positively to the project.
• Contact details of at least two references.
• A copy of the PhD degree certificate and any other certificates/qualifications you wish to include.