We are seeking to recruit a postdoctoral researcher to join
our research group at Royal Holloway University of London. The
successful applicant will join a project in which we are using social
network analysis (particularly Network-Based Diffusion
Analysis) to study the evolution of communication and information flow
in honeybee colonies. This is a full time, fixed-contract post,
available for up to one year (end date 31st Jan 2021). The start date is flexible but must be before 30th April 2017, to
coincide with our summer field season.
The successful candidate will join an ongoing ERC-funded
research project. In the spring and summer months, you will lead the
design and implementation of field-based experiments on our parkland
campus using our observation hives. Outside of the
honeybee foraging season, you will be responsible for data analysis
(including Network Based Diffusion Analysis, NBDA) and manuscript
preparation. You will be an integral member of our research team and
also be closely involved with the projects of other group
members (PDRAs and PhD students). You will also work closely with our
external project partner, Dr. Will Hoppitt. You can read more about our
lab here:
http://ellileadbeater.wixsite.com/insectcognition, and the website for our ERC project is here:
https://ellileadbeater.wixsite.com/beedancegap. A related recent publication is here: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-020-14410-0.
The successful candidate will have a PhD in Biology or
Psychology (it is acceptable to be in the final phase of a PhD
programme), with a strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals,
and proven research expertise in Animal Behaviour. A good
understanding of social network analysis and a firm mathematical
background are important, although support with model implementation
will also be available within the research group. The post holder is
expected to be highly competent with R. Most importantly,
we are seeking a team-orientated individual who has the drive to
rapidly learn the techniques needed for one of the most important axes
of our project, the commitment to develop the project to its full
potential, and the enthusiasm to contribute to our wider
projects within the lab as well.
The post is based in Egham, Surrey where the College is
situated in a beautiful, leafy campus near to Windsor Great Park and
within commuting distance from London.Our department has particular
strengths in social insect research, and our research
group provides a supportive, lively and stimulating environment for
Early Career Researchers. Our apiary facilities include indoor and
outdoor apiaries, a bumblebee cognition laboratory and dedicated bee
rearing room. We also have the support of a contracted
beekeeper.
Candidates are strongly encouraged to contact Professor Elli
Leadbeater for more details regarding the project prior to application:
Elli.Leadbeater@rhul.ac.uk. The closing date for applications is
midnight, 28th February 2020, and details of salary and application procedure are here: https://jobs.royalholloway.ac.uk/vacancy.aspx?ref=0120-041