Hiring Organization:
University of Neuchatel
Date Posted:
2012-10-26
Position Description:
We seek to fill a Postdoctoral Position to study vocal communication in variety of free-ranging monkey species, including putty-nosed monkeys, Campbell’s monkeys, Mona monkeys, and Olive Colobus monkeys. The research will be conducted at three different field sites where groups have been studied previously, the Taï National Park (Ivory Coast), Tiwai Island (Sierra Leone), and Gashaka Gumti (Nigeria). The work will be coordinated by Professor Klaus Zuberbühler (University of Neuchâtel) as part of an ERC-funded research project, “The Primate Roots of Human Language”.
The aim is to investigate various problems in primate vocal communication, including the origins of vocal flexibility, how meaning is generated in call sequences, and how syntactically organised structures are acquired ontogenetically. The project requires a strong commitment to experimental fieldwork and an interest in cognitive evolution.
Qualifications/Experience:
Required: PhD (or equivalent) in biology, anthropology, psychology or related fields; research experience and publications in animal behaviour; interest in animal cognition; good interpersonal skills to act as team leader; excellent knowledge of English; basic knowledge of French.
Beneficial: experience with fieldwork, primates, acoustic analysis, and experimental design.
Salary/funding:
€60,000 p.a. (gross)
Support provided for internship/volunteer positions (travel, meals, lodging):
Travel costs
Term of Appointment:
The initial appointment will be for 2 years, extendable by another year. The successful candidate will take on a managerial function at the different field stations and ensure the delivery of scientific goals of the project. Estimated time in the field is at least 6 months per year. The successful candidate will be required to assist with some teaching at the Institute of Biology, University of Neuchâtel, where the post is based. Basic knowledge of French is required
Application Deadline:
1 December 2012
Comments:
Applications should include a (1) letter of intent, (2) a curriculum vitae, including publication list, (3) two letters of recommendation, and (4) copies of academic transcripts and degrees. Please send all documents to Jennifer.McClung@unine.ch by 1 December 2012 (start date negotiable).
Contact Information:
Switzerland
Website:
E-mail Address: