Postdoctoral Research Associate in Mosquito Physiology and Behaviour, 3 years, Durham, UK
This
research project is based in the InsectNeuroLab (Durham, UK), led by Dr
Olena Riabinina, collaboration with Dr Marcus Blagrove (Liverpool, UK)
and Prof Thomas Schmitt (Wuerzburg, Germany), and is funded by the
Leverhulme Trust for 3 years. The project will investigate the
physiological and behavioural mechanisms that Anopheles, Aedes and Culex
pupae employ to avoid desiccation when taken out of their aquatic
habitat. We will evaluate the timing of survival in various climatic
conditions (humidity, temperature), as well as pupal behaviour in
response to sensory stimuli that may point them towards water. We will
also investigate how cuticular hydrocarbon composition on pupal exuvia
aid desiccation prevention and survival.
The
successful applicant will be expected to work independently, be highly
self-motivated and self-driven, with clear focus on developing their
academic career. The ability to interact with lab members in a
collaborative and friendly manner is paramount. The post holder will
design experiments, collect and analyse data, and prepare manuscripts
for publication. At least one of the following experiences is essential
for this post, while the remaining two are desirable: 1) Experience in
designing behavioural assays and setups, and collecting behavioural
data; 2) Experience in insect/mosquito colony maintenance; 3) Experience
of gas chromatography/mass spectrometry data collection and analysis.
Ability to work flexibly, including on weekends/holidays as required for
emergencies and mosquito colony maintenance is essential.
Part
of the data collections will be conducted in London, Liverpool and
Wuerzburg, thus the ability to travel to and work at these locations for
several days to several weeks is required. The post holder will be
expected to work collaboratively with the lab members of the three
collaborating labs and will be given the opportunity to co-supervise
junior lab members (undergraduate placements, summer projects, etc). The
post holder will also be given an opportunity to present their work at
lab meetings, departmental meetings and events, at national and
international conferences, as well as engage with public during
public-facing events.
The post is funded for 3 years, starting on the 2nd January 2025. The start date is negotiable.
Informal enquiries before application are welcome and should be directed to Dr Olena Riabinina, at olena.riabinina@durham.ac.uk. Please include:
1) a CV,
2) a Cover Letter/Motivation Letter
3) contact details of 3 academic referees
with your enquiries and in your application.