PhD Position in dynamics of environment: The Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior in Constance, Germany, invites applications for a PhD position in the Department of Animal Migration. The research will focus on investigating the soaring environment of migrating white storks using drones and understanding how soaring flight conditions vary with time and season.
PhD Position (m/f/d) – “On the wings of a stork: revealing the dynamics of soaring environments”
Summary Table:
| Study Area | Scholarship Description |
|---|---|
| Animal Migration, Drone Technology | Explore the dynamics of soaring environments in migrating white storks using drones. Investigate the availability of thermal updrafts, combining 3D GPS bird tracking, drone technology, and computer vision. Contribute to the understanding of migratory behavior in large birds. |
Eligibility: Applicants should hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in ecology, animal behavior, zoology, or a related subject. Proficiency in English (C1 level) is required, and non-native speakers must provide documentation of their English proficiency. Applicants must not have resided in the country of the recruiting beneficiary for more than 12 months in the 36 months before the recruitment date.
Scholarship Description: The PhD candidate will use drones to replicate bird-inspired 3D flight paths, analyze low-altitude images to identify thermal updrafts, and quantify the spatial and temporal dynamics of thermal updraft availability. The research involves interdisciplinary collaboration, quantitative data analysis, and a focus on migratory behavior.
Required Documents:
- Letter of motivation/research statement (2 pages)
- Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Academic transcripts for BSc and MSc degrees (unofficial at this stage)
- Contact information for 2-3 personal references
- Sample of scientific writing (e.g., publication, manuscript in prep, thesis)
How to Apply: Submit your application through the [Online Portal](application link) by March 25, 2024.
Last Date for Application: March 25, 2024
