PhD position in spatial population dynamics

Umeå University, in northern Sweden, is a dynamic university with ca.3 800 employees and 29,000 students, of which 1,300 are in PhD programs.The Department of Ecology and Environmental Science has about 170 members including 50 PhD students (for more information see the department's homepage: www.emg.umu.se/index_eng.html.See also the International office, www.umu.se/international_office/ for a general presentation of Umeå and the University.PhD position in spatial population dynamics A PhD position (4 years) in the project "Spatial heterogeneity, functional responses and predator-prey dynamics", is available.It is widely believed that spatial heterogeneity stabilizes predator-prey interactions, but the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood.This project focuses on a previously overlooked aspect - the dynamics of the covariance between predator and prey densities.The project involves cooperation with an international group of researchers that contribute with extensive data sets on coupled predator-prey systems.The data involve a diverse set of organisms, including mammals, insects, mites, and crustaceans.Many of the systems show cycles and complex spatial patterns. The project is demanding but will likely yield publications in high ranked journals.A paper that provides more background is found in Am.Nat.167:246-259. The application should include a short description of your research interests, CV, certificates from higher education, copies of Bachelors/Masters thesis, and updated contact information for three reference persons.The recruitment procedure will follow the Higher Education Ordinance (Högskoleförordningen chapters 5 and 7).Proficiency in both written and spoken English is required.See also www.emg.umu.se. Your complete application, marked with reference number 313-1331-08, should be sent to the Registrar, Umeå University, SE-901 87 Umeå, Sweden to arrive May 26, 2008 at the latest.