Belgium: PhD Position in Evolutionary Ecology Group, University of Antwerp

PhD Position in Evolutionary Ecology Group, University of Antwerp, Belgium

The University of Antwerp is a knowledge centre with 3.400 co-workers that performs ground-breaking and innovative research of international standing. The university takes special care to ensure optimum support and supervision of students, and pays constant attention to educational innovation. The university is an autonomous pluralistic institution that is committed to the enhancement of an open, democratic and multicultural society, and it pursues an equal opportunities policy.

The university is seeking to fill the following full time vacancy (m/f) at the Department of Biology of the Faculty of Sciences:

PhD position
Evolutionary Ecology group
http://www.ua.ac.be/hans.vangossum


Duties and research:
Preference goes to a candidate with a keen interest for evolution, behaviour and ecology. Research topic is the study of the causes and consequences of coexistence of multiple discrete female damselfly (Insecta: Odonata) morphs (with genetic base). Intriguingly, one female morph much resembles the conspecific males phenotype to such extent that intraspecific mimicry in the context of sexual conflict has been suggested. Several studies indicate frequency-and density-dependent selection. Broad aim of the PhD research is study of causes and consequences of variation in social environments (densities and frequencies of males and female morphs) on the success, behaviour and phenotype of males and females. Fieldwork is planned at several locations in Europe (such as Belgium, Netherlands, Spain). It also is expected for the candidate to take part in a limited amount of teaching assistance.

Requirements:

Degree in Biology (also students that finish later this term are encouraged to apply).
Preparing a PhD. The job offer is for two years, while typically 4 years are required to complete a PhD in Belgium. Therefore, the candidate will need to apply for additional funding for which several possibilities are available (e.g.; http://www.fwo.be, http://www.iwt.be).
Owner of a drivers license.
Preferentially the candidate also is used to advances statistical methods. The field work requires independence, flexibility and a taste for adventure.
Offer and further information:
Full time job from March 1 2009 or later (as agreed) for a period of two years.
For further please contact me at email: Hans.Vangossum[ at ]ua.ac.be or phone ++ 32 3 265 32 82

Procedure
CV and motivation letter are awaited before 15 February 2009 and can be send to Hans Van Gossum, by email: Hans.Vangossum[ at ]ua.ac.be, or post:

Hans Van Gossum
Universiteit Antwerpen
Departement Biologie
Onderzoeksgroep Evolutionaire Ecologie
Groenenborgerlaan 171
2020 Antwerpen
Belgium
Europe

Please also provide the contact details for two persons willing to write a letter of recommendation. On Monday 16 July 2009 you will be informed whether you have been selected for further interview and how selection will be continued.

Closing date: 15 February 2009