Researcher in Tropical Lepidoptera

Department of Ecology
 
At the Department of Ecology, research and education in ecology is conducted on the dynamics of populations, organismal communities and ecosystems, often with a focus on the ecology of agricultural and forest landscapes. Basic and applied issues of ecological consequences of land use and biodiversity are often addressed together in both individual projects and larger collaborations.

Read more about our benefits and what it's like to work at SLU at https://www.slu.se/om-slu/jobba-pa-slu/

About the position
The successful candidate will be responsible for coordinating and carrying out field work in the Atlantic Forest in Brazil. The task will be to collect data on specific Lepidoptera species about their host plant interactions in nature as well as performing rearing experiments under laboratory conditions. This is a permanent position connected to a time-limited project. The position includes coordination of field work with other group members and local field assistants. The successful candidate will be based in Uppsala but is expected to stay in Brazil during extended periods of time where field and lab work will be conducted.

This position is part of a larger project supported by an ERC Starting Grant focused on host plant specialization in Tropical butterflies. The team’s common language is English so fluency in English is necessary. To be able to successfully complete the various tasks, the candidate should be able to take initiative and work independently and should show that they are solution-oriented and can come up with creative solutions to technical problems.

We put strong emphasis on personal qualifications such as collaborative skills. The applicant will be working closely with other group members, for which reason excellent communication, good will and reliability are required.

Your profile
Applicants should hold a PhD in Ecology, Evolution, Zoology or related areas. We are looking for a highly motivated and independent yet collaborative candidate with documented experience with extended periods of field work in Tropical forests, with special focus on Lepidoptera caterpillars. Prior research on evolutionary ecology of Lepidoptera life history with focus on host-plant associations will be a strong merit, as will a strong record of field work coordination. PhD student supervision will be a strong merit. Willingness to learn basic Portuguese will be a merit.

Location:
Uppsala, Sweden

Form of employment:
Indefinite-term employment. SLU may use probationary employment.

Scope:
100%.

Start date:
As agreed. Preferably before February 2025.

Application:
Please submit your application before deadline 2 December 2024. You can submit your application by clicking the button below.

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

 


The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) has a key role in the development for sustainable life, based on science and education. Through our focus on the interaction between humans, animals and ecosystems and the responsible use of natural resources, we contribute to sustainable societal development and good living conditions on our planet. Our main campuses are located in Alnarp, Umeå and Uppsala, however, the university also operates at research stations, experimental forests and teaching sites throughout Sweden.

SLU has around 3,000 employees, 5,000 students and doctoral students and a turnover of over SEK 3 billion. We are investing in attractive environments on all of our campuses. We strive to provide a work environment characterised by inclusivity and gender equality, where different experiences generate conversations between people and pave the way for science, creativity and development. Therefore, we welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds and perspectives.