Postdoc in chemical ecology within nGICE

Department of Plant Protection Biology
The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Department of Plant Protection Biology, has an open position for a postdoc in chemical ecology within nGICE. The postdoc will conduct functional genomic analysis of mosquito odorant receptors from an ecological and evolutionary perspective.

The Max Planck Centre, next Generation Insect Chemical Ecology (nGICE), is a high-level cooperation between SLU, Lund University and the Max Planck Society. The nGICE Centre focuses on a better understanding of the consequences of global climate change on insect ecosystem services, outbreaks of invasive insect species and the spread of disease vectors in Europe through the lens of insect chemical communication systems.

The Disease Vector group at the Department of Plant Protection Biology conducts and promotes basic research on the chemical ecology of disease vectors in accordance with societal needs, nationally and internationally, and apply this know-how to develop novel surveillance and control tools to be used within the integrated vector management framework. Our multi-disciplinary approach, to study how odour-mediated behaviours of disease vectors are modulated by external chemosensory cues and internal physiological states, is directed towards the identification of targets for reducing host-vector interactions.

Duties:
A vast majority of volatile organic compounds are shared in the odour space of distantly related mosquito species. Yet, the structure of the receptors used to sense these odorants differ markedly. How are the functional characteristics of the odorant receptors conserved, while the structures are so divergent? In this project we will analyse the functional characteristics of odorant receptors from several species, using a reverse chemical ecology approach to elucidate the structure-function relationship of odorant receptors, in an ecological and evolutionary context, using both physiological and functional genomic techniques.

Qualifications:
The successful candidate will hold a PhD in a biology-related field. Experience with electrophysiological analysis, ideally single sensillum recordings from chemosensory neurons, is a requirement. In addition, a background in chemical ecology, molecular biology, especially experience with cloning and expression of odorant receptor genes in heterologous systems is a significant asset. S/he should be fluent in spoken and written English, and have excellent communication skills. The candidate should enjoy working in a group environment, as well as demonstrate a solid ability to work independently to advance our research.

As postdoctoral appointments are career-developing positions for junior researchers, we are primarily looking for candidates with a doctoral degree that is three years old at most.
Place of work:
Alnarp, Sweden

Form of employment:
2 year postdoc position

Extent:
100%

Starting date:
1 September 2020

Application:
We welcome your application no later than 2020-04-15, use the button below.

Specific documents attached: Applications must contain (1) CV, (2) a description of research experience, (3) a statement of scientific interests, as well as (4) contact information of two references.

Academic union representatives:
https://internt.slu.se/en/my-employment/employee-associations/kontaktpersoner-vid-rekrytering/



The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) develops the understanding and sustainable use and management of biological natural resources. The university ranks well internationally within its subject areas. SLU is a research-intensive university that also offers unique degree programmes in for example rural development and natural resource management, environmental economics, animal science and landscape architecture.

SLU has just over 3,000 employees, 5,000 students and a turnover of SEK 3 billion. The university has invested heavily in a modern, attractive environment on its campuses in Alnarp, Umeå and Uppsala.

www.slu.se

SLU is an equal opportunity employer.