[ECOLOG-L] PhD in bird ecophysiology - Germany

[Michaël Beaulieu]

University of Greifswald, Zoological Institute and Museum
PhD position in Animal Ecology
Application deadline: 30.09.2015

The Department of Animal Ecology, Zoological Institute and Museum at the University of
Greifswald invites applications for a PhD position.
Starting date: November 1st 2015.
Duration: 3 years.
Salary: German salary scale (TV-L 13, 65%).

We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate with interests in ecophysiology,
behavioural ecology and evolution. The general aim of the PhD project is to characterize
the threat that heat waves may constitute for a tropical bird species (Gouldian finch), and
how variation in terms of oxidative status may participate to this threat. Towards this
end, the candidate will measure the effects of high temperature on (i) oxidative markers,
(ii) fertility and fecundity markers, and (iii) ageing markers. The candidate will also
examine whether these effects can be alleviated by the consumption of natural food
resources of high antioxidant potency. The whole project will be conducted in captivity at
the University of Greifswald, but also includes collaborative work with the universities of
Groningen, Neufchatel and Strasbourg.
The successful candidate will hold a Masters in Biology or equivalent (e.g. Dr. Vet. Med),
and will have a strong background in behavioural ecology and/or physiology. Prior work
with birds or mammals and laboratory work will be advantageous. English
communication skills are essential and some German knowledge might also be useful.
The successful candidate will be expected to take actively part to the set-up and the
organization of the project, as well as to take care of birds. Finally, she/he will have the
opportunity to take part to the Graduate School RESPONSE as associated doctoral
researcher (http://www.mnf.uni-greifswald.de/institute/fr-biologie/graduiertenkolleg-rtg-
2010.html).
The department of Animal Ecology works in the field of evolutionary ecology, focusing on
life-history evolution, stress adaptation and reproductive biology. Current projects focus
on temperature stress resistance, temperature-mediated plasticity, reproductive
resource allocation, sexual selection and sexual conflict. For further information on our
research, please visit http://www.mnf.uni-greifswald.de/institute/fr-biologie/institute-und-
forschung/zool-institut-museum/tieroekologie.html and
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Michael_Beaulieu2.
Greifswald is a small and pleasant university town located on the coast of the Baltic Sea
between the islands of Rügen and Usedom. The region offers great opportunities for
outdoor activities and bird watching. Large cities like Berlin and Hambourg are easy to
reach.
Applications should include:
(1) a cover letter with a short statement of motivation,
(2) a short statement of research accomplishments (max. 1 page),
(3) a CV,
(4) a list of publications (if any),
(5) the contact details of one or two academic referees.
Applications should be submitted electronically as a single PDF file to: Dr. Michaël
Beaulieu e-mail: beau...@uni-greifswald.de
The University of Greifswald is an equal opportunity employer.

For any enquiries, please contact Michaël Beaulieu via e-mail.
Dr. Michaël Beaulieu Zoological Institute & Museum Greifswald University J.-S.-Bach-Str.
11/12 D-17489 Greifswald Phone: +49-3834-864266 Fax: +49-3834-864252 "Dr.
Michaël Beaulieu" <beau...@uni-greifswald.de>