Fully Funded 3-Year PhD Position: We invite applications for a fully funded 3-year position as a PhD candidate in Bayreuth (65% TV-L E13, DFG-funded). This opportunity is part of a novel and exciting research project focusing on the evolution of family life, particularly investigating the role of social and individual immunity in early social evolution using Nicrophorus burying beetles. The project aims to answer crucial questions about family dynamics and social immunity in these fascinating insects.
Summary Table:
| Position | Fully Funded 3-Year PhD Position |
|---|---|
| Focus | Evolution of Family Life |
| Duration | 3 years (65% TV-L E13) |
| Funding | DFG-funded |
Study Area: The study area involves exploring the intricate dynamics of family life and social immunity in Nicrophorus burying beetles, with a focus on parental care behaviors, microbial control, and the adjustments made by offspring to their social environment.
Scholarship Description:
Fully Funded 3-Year PhD Position – Evolution of Family Life
The PhD candidate will conduct experiments to understand how offspring adjust to the quality of their social environment concerning parental care and microbial pressure. The research will delve into immune defense mechanisms, molecular aspects of environment-dependent offspring phenotypes using RNAseq and transcriptome analyses, and the elements of the social environment influencing offspring investments.
Eligibility: Applicants should hold a recent master’s degree in biology or a related field, with a background in evolutionary biology and/or behavioral ecology. Motivation to conduct rigorous experimental studies is crucial. Good biostatistics skills (e.g., R) or a strong motivation to learn statistical knowledge are important. Previous experience with RNAseq and/or bioinformatics is useful but not mandatory.
Required Documents: Interested candidates should submit applications (in English) as single-file .PDF attachments, including:
- Letter of motivation (max. 1 page)
- Curriculum vitae (with grades of B.Sc and M.Sc or equivalent)
- Summary of the Master thesis (max. 500 words)
- Email addresses of 2-3 potential referees
Send applications to Max Körner at maximilian.koerner@uni-bayreuth.de
How to Apply: To apply, send a single-file .PDF containing the required documents to Max Körner at maximilian.koerner@uni-bayreuth.de by the deadline of 22.12.23. The ideal starting date is March 2024, with later starts also possible.
Last Date: 22 December 23
The Department of Evolutionary Animal Ecology at the University of Bayreuth provides a modern, dynamic, and supportive research environment. The University of Bayreuth, ranked in the top 10 percent of young universities worldwide, offers interdisciplinary research opportunities. Bayreuth, a vibrant university town in scenic Upper Franconia, provides numerous opportunities for outdoor activities and cultural exploration.
