PhD Position on Reproductive Microbiomes: A fully funded PhD position is currently available at the Department of Animal Ecology, Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW), in Wageningen. The selected candidate will work on an ERC-funded project focusing on avian reproductive microbiomes and their impact on host fitness and evolution in wild animals. The project aims to investigate the role of host genetics and immune functioning in shaping reproductive microbiome variability.
Fully Funded PhD Position on Avian Reproductive Microbiomes
Designation: PhD Candidate
Research Area: Avian Reproductive Microbiomes
Location: Wageningen, Netherlands
Eligibility/Qualification:
- Master’s degree in ecology/evolution, molecular biology, microbial ecology, or a related discipline
- Excellent communication skills in English
- Experience with bird field work is highly preferred
- Proficiency in quantitative analysis, handling big datasets, and experience with R statistical software and linear mixed models
Job Description:
The successful candidate will be responsible for conducting quantitative genetics studies to ascertain the link between microbiome variation and individual fitness in a wild population. The research will involve fieldwork to collect samples from wild birds, laboratory analysis, bioinformatic and statistical analysis of data, manuscript preparation, and supervision of students. Additionally, there is potential for the candidate to develop complementary avenues of research.
How to Apply:
Interested candidates are required to submit the following documents in English:
- Cover letter indicating motivation and relevant experience for the position
- CV
- Names of 3 professional referees (name, address, telephone & email)
For further information and informal inquiries, candidates can contact Dr. Melissah Rowe at m.rowe@nioo.knaw.nl.
Deadline for Application: September 15th, initial (online) interviews scheduled for September 23/24th, with a starting date in November 2024 or as mutually agreed.
For more information about the Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW) and the Department of Animal Ecology, visit the official website at http://www.nioo.knaw.nl/.
