We are recruiting a postdoctoral researcher in
Ethology at the Department of Zoology, Stockholm University.
The project explores deer foraging psychology, in
particular
plant-herbivore interactions.
More information below.
Thanks for spreading it among
potentially candidates.
Best wishes,
Ulrika Alm Bergvall
A postdoctoral position is available
in the research group of Dr Ulrika Alm Bergvall, in collaboration with Prof.
Olof Leimar (Stockholm University) and Prof. Charlotta Turner (Lund
University).
We are recruiting a postdoctoral researcher to work in
the project ”Pine sapling protection based on plant defence theory and ungulate
foraging behaviour”. Ungulate populations are important natural resources, but
are also associated with costs by foraging on young pine plants. Herbivore behaviour and
physiology have coevolved with plant protection mechanisms over millions of
years. By taking advantage of this evolved system it should be possible to
improve forest management. The aim of the project is to protect pine saplings from deer
browsing by making use of general principles of deer foraging behaviour in
relation to the concentration of secondary compounds in a focal tree and its
neighbours. The project explores deer foraging psychology, in particular foraging
decisions over small to medium spatial scales. The interactions between plants and
herbivores are among the most important and intriguing in nature and the
scientific field of plant-herbivore interactions is quite broad and rapidly
developing.
The work includes fieldwork, data analyses, help with
supervision of student projects, article- and grant writing. The field work
will mainly be conducted at or nearby the Tovetorp Zoological Research Station,
Stockholm University. The project also includes communication with
stakeholders.
Eligibility and selection criteria
The applicant must have a doctoral degree (or have a PhD thesis ready with a
date fixed within 2015 for thesis defense) from an accredited
college/university in Biology, Forestry or a similar field of studies. In filling the position,
particular weight will be given to research proficiency and knowledge of relevant
theory and methods within forestry, wildlife ecology, animal cognition,
foraging psychology or/and evolution of plant defences.
Terms of employment
The position is for two years full time. Start of
position should be in 2015 but the exact date is a matter of negotiation with
the successful candidate.
Information
For further information, please contact the project
leader Ulrika Alm Bergvall Ulrika.Alm-Bergvall@zoologi.su.se
at the Department of Zoology, Stockholm University.
University home page: