PhD Position – Communication: The University of Konstanz and the Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior invite applications for a fully funded PhD position in the field of communication and collective behavior in meerkats.
Summary Table:
| Position Type | Duration | |
|---|---|---|
| PhD Position | 4 years |
Study Area: The research focuses on understanding the interplay between communication and collective movement in wild meerkat groups, specifically examining group responses to threats. The fieldwork will take place at the Kalahari Meerkat Project in the Kalahari Desert, South Africa.
Scholarship Description: The doctoral student will collect and analyze GPS and acoustic data from entire meerkat groups to investigate how vocal communication coordinates group behaviors, especially in response to predation threats. The position is fully funded for 4 years and open to students of any nationality.
Eligibility: Applicants should have a Master’s degree in any scientific discipline, including biology, physics, mathematics, computer science, or engineering. Candidates with a positive attitude, enthusiasm for fieldwork, quantitative data analysis skills, and the ability to work independently are encouraged to apply. Knowledge of German is not required.
Required Documents: Applicants should apply via the IMPRS-QBEE application system, including a research statement addressing scientific interests, motivation, and specific biological questions related to the project.
How to Apply: Submit applications via the IMPRS-QBEE application system by the application deadline.
Last Date: Until position filled
Data Description: Over the past 6 years, data from entire meerkat groups have been recorded using multi-sensor tracking collars. The data include GPS locations, continuous audio recordings, and accelerometer data from individuals. The long-term study also collects demographic, behavioral, and weight data. See the image above for a visualization of movement and audio data from a group of seven meerkats.
The Universität Konstanz and the Max Planck Society are equal opportunity employers committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or disability. They seek to increase the number of women in areas where they are underrepresented and encourage applications from persons with disabilities.
Contact: +49 7531 88 4016 (Persons with disabilities will be given preference if appropriately qualified).
