At the Division of Animal
Welfare, University of Bern, Switzerland, we are seeking a postdoctoral
scientist who is eager to investigate causes of variation in animal
research. The project is funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation
(SNSF); its ultimate goal is to develop experimental designs for
improving the external validity and reproducibility of animal research.
The successful candidate will work in a small team together with
faculty, another postdoc, a PhD student, and a lab technician and will
participate in supervision of the PhD student and training of
undergraduate students.
We
will employ a multi-faceted approach comprising conceptual and
quantitative statistical modelling based on existing datasets,
systematic review and meta-analysis of published data, and experimental
studies using laboratory mice to investigate how different sources of
biological variation affect variation within and between replicate
studies. Outcome variables will include behavioural, physiological, and
epigenetic measures.
Candidates
need a University degree and PhD (or equivalent) in biology or
biomedical sciences. Since the project involves multiple approaches
covering a diverse array of techniques, candidates with various
backgrounds and skill sets are encouraged to apply. An understanding of
sampling theory and statistics, and reasonable programming and
computational skills will be essential. Knowledge in quantitative
genetics and epigenetic analyses (DNA methylation and histone
modification) are desirable. Experience in behavioural and physiological
phenotyping of mice and in systematic reviews and meta-analyses will be
beneficial.
Proficiency
in German language is not required but a willingness to learn basic
German will facilitate living in Bern and positively affect social life.
We offer an attractive academic environment, opportunities to develop
the own academic career, a 3-year contract, and a competitive salary
based on the Swiss Cantonal University scheme.
Please
send your application letter together with a motivation statement, your
CV, publication list, copies of relevant study certificates, and
contact details of one or two reference persons (reference letters are
not required at this stage) in a single pdf-file to: hanno.wuerbel@vetsuisse.unibe.ch. We encourage applications of people with unusual career tracks.
The deadline for application is June 20, 2018.
The intended project start is September 2018 (negotiable). Please
indicate your preferred and earliest possible start date in the
application letter. For informal enquiries, please contact Prof. Hanno
Würbel: hanno.wuerbel@vetsuisse.unibe.ch.