Jobs
A PhD student position is available in the group of Aquatic Evolutionary Ecology
at the University of Innsbruck (Research Department for Limnology, Mondsee), Austria.
Position
In this position, you can experimentally examine the evolutionary ecology of the responses of the freshwater snail Lymnaea stagnalis to changing environmental conditions under climate change. The specific goals are to evaluate (1) evolutionary potential (i.e., quantitative genetic variation) in snails’ phenotypic responses to heatwaves, (2) the relative importance of different genetic and non-genetic factors in determining these responses, and (3) the dependence of the expression of genetic variation on ecological factors that vary in nature (e.g., food availability). Available resources for research include inbred snail lines for quantitative genetic breeding designs. The project is linked to other work in the research group that focuses on the evolutionary adaptation of organisms to environmental change and natural enemies.
General information about the research group and the institute can be found at https://www.uibk.ac.at/limno/
The Research Department for Limnology is located on the edge of the Alps in the small town of Mondsee (Upper Austria). The nearest city is Salzburg, which offers history, culture and entertainment at a convenient distance from Mondsee.
Requirements and Salary
We invite highly motivated students with a strong background in evolutionary ecology and experimental research to apply for this position. A master’s degree (or equivalent) is required. Earlier experience with the study system is not necessary.
The project is funded by the Austrian Science Fund (FWF) for 4 years. The salary is based on the personnel cost rates of the FWF
https://www.fwf.ac.at/en/research-funding/personnel-costs
Earliest starting date: July 1, 2021.
Applications
Qualified persons are invited to apply by email. Please attach a single PDF file including a letter of motivation, CV, a research statement (max 2 pages), and names plus contact information of two references to otto.seppaelae@uibk.ac.at. The subject line should read “PhD-position 2021”. Evaluation of the applications starts May 17, 2021. Only complete applications are considered. Top candidates will be interviewed.