The Marine Evolution and Conservation (MarECon) group at the Centre for
Ecological and Evolutionary Studies (CEES) has a vacancy for a (funded)
PhD position. CEES is placed within the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural
Sciences at the University of Groningen (RUG) in The Netherlands. The
research conducted by the members of MarECon is primarily aimed at
understanding the ecological and evolutionary genomics of pelagic marine
organisms, in particular marine mammals.
Our primary research approach
is to leverage population genetics and genomics techniques to uncover
the processes that partition genetic variation within the species that
inhabit this comparatively open marine environment. This research is
conducted with a global network of collaborators who collect data and
tissue samples in the field.
Job description
The research project is flexible and the successful candidate will
have the choice to focus on some ongoing projects in the lab. Most of
these projects include a major component of (genetic) data analyses and
bioinformatics, some include the production of genomic data in the lab
(using Next Generation Sequencing Technologies, NGS), and on rare occasion
field sampling trips.
Comparative genomics in marine mammals
Our lab is actively engaged in the production and analyses of whole
genomes from marine mammals using NGS technologies. The ultimate goal is
to analyze the molecular evolution of genes across the genome of the three
marine lineages of mammals that came back to an aquatic existence and
identify candidate genomic regions that could have been involved in this
major transition. This project will consist of primarily bioinformatic,
population genetic and genomic approaches.
Evolution of marine trophic networks
Climate change and human activities have deeply impacted the evolution and
functioning of marine ecosystems. Using a number of model systems, we are
exploring how environmental and human perturbations have actually impacted
various species at different trophic levels, and further understand the
link between them. To make inferences about past and recent evolution of
these ecosystems, and make predictions about their future evolution we
will be combining ecological, historical and population genetic modeling.
Statistical phylogeography, demographic history and evolution in marine mammals
Our lab has a long standing interest in understanding the factors and
processes involved in the partitioning of individuals and thus the genetic
variation within and among populations, ecotypes and subspecies. This
is fundamental to understand key evolutionary and ecological processes,
such as adaptation, behaviour, and speciation. This is also crucial for
many conservation issues. Therefore, our approach is multidisciplinary
and combines population genetics/genomics, geo-statistical probabilistic
modeling with ecological approaches such as (paleo-) habitat modeling,
feeding ecology, etc. Our research focuses on various (pelagic) species,
particularly for marine mammals. For example, we are currently developing
projects on the demographic history and evolutionary genomics of harbour
porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) and the comparative phylogeography of
marine mammals, among other projects.
Qualifications
We seek a bright and highly motivated and enthusiastic person able
to work both as part of a team and independently. The ideal candidate
would have a master degree in ecology and evolutionary biology, with
good background in population genetics, bioinformatics, genomics
and computational biology. Candidates from other programs such as
computational sciences, bioinformatics, and mathematics with a strong
interest in ecology and evolution are also invited to apply.
Proficiency with R statistical language, Linux/UNIX shell scripting,
and (at least) a high level programming language (e.g. Python) is
recommended. Experience with NGS technologies, Geographic Information
System, SQL data bases is a plus, but full training will be provided.
The language in the lab is English. A high standard of spoken and written
English is required.
Conditions of employment
The University of Groningen offers a salary of euro 2,083 gross per
month in the first year up to a maximum of euro 2,664 gross per month
in the final year (salary scale Dutch Universities). Initially, the
position will be for 1 year with possible extension of another 3 years,
depending on performance during the first year. The PhD candidate will
be evaluated after the first year in order to determine the likelihood
of a successful completion of the PhD thesis within the following three
years. If a successful completion is deemed unlikely, the employment
will not be extended. The main objective of the position is to conduct
original research published as research articles in peer-reviewed
scientific journals. These publications will form the basis of the
doctoral thesis that will lead to obtaining a PhD degree (Dr) at the
University of Groningen. The candidate will be enrolled in the RUG
Graduate School of Science, and attend graduate courses within the
Research School Ecology and Evolution.
The PhD student will be supervised by Dr Michael C. Fontaine.
Application
To apply for the position, please provide: (i) a letter of maximum 2
pages describing your personal motivation for applying for this position,
outlining skills and experience pertinent to the position and past
experience. In addition, please include a brief explanation of what you
think the main research questions in evolution and conservation are today
for marine mammals and that you would like to develop during your PhD;
(ii) a complete curriculum vitae including publication list; and (iii)
names and contact details (addresses, emails, and telephone numbers) for
three referees willing to write confidential letters of recommendation.
Complete applications should be submitted before
14 November 2014, Dutch local time by means of the
application form ("Apply" link) on the university website :
http://www.rug.nl/about-us/work-with-us/job-opportunities/overview?details=347-02S00048SP&cat=phd
Interviews will be planned shortly after November 2014.
The ideal starting date would be around January 2015.
Information
Advertise and "apply" link for the application on the university website:
http://www.rug.nl/about-us/work-with-us/job-opportunities/overview?details=347-02S00048SP&cat=phd
Information on the PhD, contact Dr Michael C. Fontaine
(
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Groningen, Netherlands: http://www.rug.nl/education/why-choose-groningen
The University of Groningen (RuG): http://www.rug.nl/about-us/work-with-us
CEES: http://www.rug.nl/research/cees
MarECon: http://www.rug.nl/research/marine-evolution-and-conservation
Marine Evolution and Conservation
Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Studies
University of Groningen
Nijenborgh 7
9747 AG Groningen
The Netherlands
Email:
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