We wish to recruit a post-doctoral researcher to undertake OPTIMALITY MODELING in the field of life history research. The position will be opened at the recently established Centre of Scientific Excellence 'Frontiers in Biodiversity Research' (FIBIR, http://fibir.ut.ee) at the University of Tartu, Estonia (http://www.ut.ee).
The successful candidate will work in Prof. Toomas Tammaru's (http://www.ut.ee/~tammarut) research group, whose primary focus is the life history evolution of insects (the evolution of body size in particular). Having mainly relied on experimental methods to date, the group is looking to strengthen the modeling component of its research activity. We have various ideas waiting to be formalized, and empirical data are available to serve as the foundation of empirically based models. However, the work profile is largely flexible, and the researcher will be able to develop his or her own ideas. The successful candidate will be encouraged to collaborate with other research groups, both at FIBIR and elsewhere.
Funding is presently available for 24 months, though there is a strong possibility that this can be extended, subject to the candidate's performance. FIBIR offers an excellent research environment within a modern infrastructure. The salary level corresponds to that of European
Union framework projects and is open to negotiation. The position is available from 1st June, 2009, though the start date is flexible.
Union framework projects and is open to negotiation. The position is available from 1st June, 2009, though the start date is flexible.
The successful candidate is expected to have a strong publication record that demonstrates his or her ability to apply either analytical or numerical methods to model biological systems. Competence in the field of mathematical statistics would be an advantage. Previous experience with insect life history research is not essential. In the case of very strong candidates, it would be possible to transform the post-doctoral position into that of a senior researcher.
If interested, provide your CV, a list of publications and the contact details of at least two academic referees by 11th May, 2009. For this purpose, and for informal enquiries, please contact Toomas Tammaru at toomas.tammaru@ut.ee (cc to maarika.maesalu@ut.ee).