Department of Ecology
The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) generates knowledge for a sustainable management of our natural resources, while challenging established knowledge through critical thinking and a curious, open perspective. Our activities encompass plants, animals, and humans worldwide, with a focus on the green sector, including forestry, agriculture, and water management. Research in wildlife biology is primarily conducted at th... Visa mer
Department of Ecology
The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) generates knowledge for a sustainable management of our natural resources, while challenging established knowledge through critical thinking and a curious, open perspective. Our activities encompass plants, animals, and humans worldwide, with a focus on the green sector, including forestry, agriculture, and water management. Research in wildlife biology is primarily conducted at the Department of Ecology (Grimsö), the Department of Wildlife, Fish & Environment, and the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science.
Read more about our benefits and working at SLU by visiting: https://www.slu.se/om-slu/jobba-pa-slu/
About the position
The timing of hunting seasons is largely determined by ethical considerations based on the reproductive biology of the game species. Hunting seasons may need to be adjusted due to changing game populations, new biological knowledge, or climate change affecting the timing of reproduction and offspring independence. Thus, updated knowledge of the reproductive biology of game species is necessary for making informed decisions.
During the latest revision of Swedish hunting seasons, it was noted that hunting might occur during the reproductive season of red fox (Vulpes vulpes), badger (Meles meles), pine marten (Martes martes), polecat (Mustela putorius), mountain hare (Lepus timidus), European hare (Lepus europaeus), and beaver (Castor fiber). Therefore, the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency is now funding a research program to investigate the timing of reproduction in these species.
The program provides a unique opportunity for comparative studies on how environmental factors affect the reproductive biology of medium-sized mammals. We will combine data from various sources, and collected through different methods, to address research questions including:
When are the offspring born, and what is the geographical variation?
When is the suckling period, and when do young become independent in different parts of Sweden?
How is the timing of reproduction affected by a changing environment, and what changes can we expect in the future?
The advertised position focuses on citizen science through the analysis of observations and images from the public and various stakeholders in wildlife management, with a primary emphasis on badgers, red foxes, and pine martens. You will have a coordinating role in data collection, method development, data analysis and scientific writing.
Your profile
You have a Ph.D. in ecology, reproductive biology, veterinary medicine, or another relevant field, with documented experience in citizen science. Previous experience in image analysis and analysing large datasets statistically is highly desirable, as is experience in combining statistical methods and data from different sources. Knowledge of life history theory for mammals is advantageous, as well as knowledge of Swedish wildlife management and hunting legislation. Experience from camera traps, hormone analyses, and DNA analyses of faeces is also beneficial.
We are seeking an ambitious, creative, and enthusiastic person with excellent communication skills in English (both spoken and written), particularly in leading the writing of scientific publications and communicating science to the public. Proficiency in Swedish or another Scandinavian language is strongly preferred, as important aspects of the research program rely on citizen science and collaboration with various stakeholders in wildlife management. You enjoy working in a team while having the ability to lead sub-projects in your areas of expertise.
A valid driver's license (B-körkort) is a requirement for the position.
A postdoctoral position is primarily intended for individuals who have completed their Ph.D. within the last three years.
Location:
Department of Ecology, Grimsö Research Station.
Form of employment:
Temporary employment 24 months, with the possibility of extension.
Scope:
100%.
Start date:
February 2024, or as agreement.
Ansökan:
Please submit your deadline by 7 th of January 2024. You can submit your application by clicking the button below. We are recruiting four postdoctoral researchers who will apply different methods to all species within the research program, working closely together. The exact distribution of tasks among positions may be adjusted based on the qualifications of the applicants. Therefore, we encourage interested candidates to apply for multiple positions within the program (link to additional ads).
Selection among eligible applicants is based on:
1. a 1-2 page personal letter in English, describing yourself as an applicant and your motivation and fit for the project; 2) your CV, including education, publications, and relevant work experience; 3) a link to your doctoral thesis, copies of degree certificates and academic merits, transcripts from previous studies at the undergraduate and advanced levels at universities or colleges; 4) a list of at least two references familiar with the applicant's qualifications; 5) interviews with the top-ranked candidates.
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.
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