Hiring Organization:
Anthropological Institute and Museum, University of Zurich
Winterthurerstrasse 190
8057 Zurich, Switzerland
Date Posted: 15.02.2011
Position Description:
Within the framework of a large collaborative project between the universities of Neuchatel (Prof. Dr. R. Bshary), St. Andrews (Prof. Dr. A. Whiten) and Zurich (Prof. Dr. C.P. van Schaik & Dr. M. Krützen) on the evolution of social behaviour in vervet monkeys (Cercopithecus aethiops), the Anthropological Institute and Museum (AIM) at the University of Zurich offers a three year, full-time PhD-position to investigate the causes and consequences of between-group conflicts in South African vervet monkeys.
The successful candidate is expected to spend a considerable amount of time at our field-site in Kwazulu-Natal -up to a minimum of 10 months per year over the first two years- collecting and supervising the collection of: 1) behavioural (both observational and experimental) and ranging data (GPS- and VHF-telemetry) on ten habituated groups, and 2) detailed information on the local vegetation (structural and floristic make-up as well as phenology). In addition, genetic samples will be collected to allow detailed genetic analyses on population structure, within- and between-group relatedness, and paternity. For the genetic part of this project, the PhD-student will receive all required training at the AIM.
Qualifications/Experience:
We invite applications from students holding (or expecting to obtain prior to July 2011) an MSc.-degree in Biology/Anthropology or other relevant academic field. Previous experience collecting and analyzing behavioural and movement data, especially in a (sub-)tropical environment will be highly advantageous. Applicants should moreover be proficient in written and spoken English, have excellent social skills, and be able to work both independently and in a large, interdisciplinary team.
Salary/funding:
The salary will be in accordance with Swiss national regulations for doctoral students and amounts to CHF 40,200.- over the first year, up to CHF 46,200.- over the third year. In addition, an annual contribution of up to CHF 2,000.- will be made to cover travel expenses between Zurich and the field site in South Africa.
Term of Appointment:
Initial appointment will be for a 1 year period which, after satisfactory evaluation, will be extended to a total duration of 3 years. The successful candidate is expected to start by 01.07.2011.
Application Deadline:
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Promising candidates will be invited for an interview and oral presentation of their MSc-thesis or other relevant work in the week of 11 -15 April.
Contact Information:
Applications consisting of a cover letter stating research experience and interests, a detailed CV (up to 2 pages), and the names and e-mail addresses of two referees can be sent electronically to Dr. Erik Willems, e.willems@aim.uzh.ch. A more detailed project description can be obtained upon request.