PhD position in Ecological Modelling

The School of Life Sciences at the University of Skövde is looking for a PhD position in Ecological Modelling with specialization in Ecological Community Risk Assessment The University of Skövde defines the subject of Ecological Modelling as the studies of ecological systems using theoretical approaches (mainly based on mathematical models that are analyzed analytically and/or numerically). The PhD student we are looking for will focus on the fragility or robustness to perturbations of ecological communities within the FORMAS funded research project ECRA (Ecological Community Risk Assessment). ECRA seeks to increase our understanding of the importance of biodiversity and consequently, effects of future biodiversity change, for the robustness to perturbations of ecological communities. The research includes developing new analytical tools and numerical methods within the areas sensitivity analysis and community viability analysis, for predicting the response of ecological communities under various types of stress. Qualified for employment is an individual that has a research preparing undergraduate degree, from a university or college, with a major in ecology. The following criteria for evaluation apply to this position: an expressed interest in theoretical ecology in general, and the problems addressed by ECRA in particular, talent for and interest in applying analytical and numerical tools to study problems within the field of Ecological Community Risk Assessment good programming skills, in particular in the Matlab environment, good analytical skills and an inquisitive mind. High importance is attached to the applicant's ability to work and function in a research group. Only a person admitted to PhD studies may be appointed to the position. The degree of ability to make progress in PhD studies will be primarily referred to at the appointment. The position offers exciting research assignments in a creative environment with great possibilities for personal development. The applicant has an opportunity to influence the direction of the research within the subject area. ECRA is a collaborative project carried out by researchers at Linköping University and the University of Skövde. Consequently, the successful PhD candidate will carry out some of the research in close collaboration with colleagues at Linköping University. At the University of Skövde the applicant will be a member of the team in Ecological Modelling that works with related problem areas in ecology from a theoretical perspective. The team in Ecological Modelling is part of the Systems biology research environment at the University of Skövde. Work assignments consist to a minimum of 80 % PhD studies and a maximum of 20 % departmental work (mainly teaching). The application and all documents should - to the extent possible - be in English.