PhD Position in Natural Science, specializing in Biology

The University of Gothenburg tackles society’s challenges with diverse knowledge. 53 500 students and 6 500 employees make the university a large and inspiring place to work and study. Strong research and attractive study programmes attract scientists and students from around the world. With new knowledge and new perspectives, the University contributes to a better future.

The department of Biological and Environmental Sciences is placed at three different localities: in Gothenburg Botanical garden, at Medicinarberget in Gothenburg and Kristineberg Marine Research Station. The current position is placed at Medicinarberget in Gothenburg.

Project description

The overall aim of this project is to develop new methods for removal of the invasive brook trout and to evaluate ecosystem recovery after removal. The response of ecosystems will be investigated by quantifying benthic invertebrates’ community and trophic structure as well as the potential impact that brook trout might have on the interaction between brown trout and the endangered freshwater pearl mussel. There will be opportunities for the student to frame his research areas based on personal interest within this framework. The student will work in close collaboration with a network of scientists across Europe. Main supervisor will be Professor Johan Höjesjö from the department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Gothenburg and co supervisors; Dr Julien Cucherousset from CNRS-University of Toulouse, France and Dr Libor Zavorka from the Wasser Cluster Lunz, Austria.

Job assignments

The main task is to conduct the PhD thesis work under supervision, which includes development of the PhD student’s methodology experience, analytical skills, and theoretical depth and breadth. Techniques used within the project will involve behavioral scoring of the fish, stable isotope analyses, telemetry (passive integrated transponder and portable antennae’s). The studies will be a combination of field and laboratory work. Specific research topics associated with the research project include biological invasion and behavioural ecology.

Third cycle education

Admission to third cycle education is aiming at a PhD in Natural Science, specializing in Biology. The education runs for four years of fulltime studies, containing three years of thesis work and one year of academic education (i.e. course work and literature studies). A selection of courses at the Department/Faculty is available, but national/international courses can also be selected.  Some teaching and/or course administration can be included which extends the contract to the same extent.

Eligibility

To be eligible for third-cycle studies, the applicant must meet both the general and specific entry requirements. A person meets the general entry requirements for third-cycle courses and study programs if he/she:
1. has been awarded a second-cycle qualification, or
2. has satisfied the requirements for courses comprising at least 240 credits of which at least 60 credits were awarded in the second-cycle, or
3. has acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way in Sweden or abroad.

To meet the specific entry requirements for third-cycle studies, applicants must:
1. have a second cycle (advanced-level) degree in a relevant* subject area in the natural sciences, or
2. have completed studies for at least 60 higher education credits at a second-cycle level in relevant subject areas in the natural sciences, or
3. have completed a corresponding program of relevance to the planned third-cycle program, in Sweden or in another country, or have equivalent qualifications.

*Relevant subject for the planned third-cycle education is Biology.

Assessments

Rules regarding education and employment on a doctoral level you will find in Högskoleförordningen (HF, SFS 1993:100). Only applicants who are admitted to the postgraduate level may be hired. Upon appointment the degree of ability to successfully complete the PhD program must firstly be evaluated.

We are seeking a motivated person for PhD studies in Biology with emphasis on biological invasion and behavioural ecology in salmonids.

In addition to the requirements listed above the applicants also need to:


• possess excellent communication skills, written and spoken, in English
• have the ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• driving license

It is advantageous/beneficial if the applicants also has:


• in depth knowledge in stable isotope analyses and species knowledge of benthic invertebrate
• documented experience on statistics
• previous merits from scientific publishing

For more information and how to apply

In order to apply for a position at the University of Gothenburg, you have to register an account in our online recruitment system https://web103.reachmee.com/ext/I005/1035/main?site=7&validator=9b89bead79bb7258ad55c8d75228e5b7〈=UK&rmpage=job&rmjob=19683 
It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that the application is complete in accordance with the instructions in the job advertisement, and that it is submitted before the deadline. The selection of candidates is made on the basis of the qualifications registered in the application.

 


In connection to this recruitment, we have already decided which recruitment channels we should use. We therefore decline further contact with vendors, recruitment and staffing companies.