POST-DOC position:
Vocal communication in chimpanzees and other non-human primates
We are offering a two years Max Planck post-doc fellowship with a possible two years extension working on a project that investigates the complexity of vocal communication in chimpanzees. The successful applicant will be comparing among different chimpanzee populations (wild and zoo) and other non-human primates, and lead a small team to assist in this work.
This post-doc is part of a larger interdisciplinary project investigating the evolution of brain connectivity (EBC) in hominoids. EBC seeks further understanding of the brains of chimpanzees and other non-human primates, especially the communication, tool use and social cognition pathways. Using the comparative approach and our understanding of chimpanzee and monkey behavior, results will assist our understanding of the evolution of structures and functions of the human brain.
This post-doc project will combine observations, acoustic recordings, playback experiments and acoustic analysis of chimpanzees and several other non-human primate species from wild and zoo populations to describe and compare vocal communication and predict function to brain structures. For the project is will be crucial to build and maintain a network of field sites involved in the research and will include supervision of students and staff for data collection and coding.
Qualifications and Requirements
PhD, or comparable degree, in Biology, Psychology or Evolutionary Anthropology and a good knowledge in animal behaviour and animal vocal communication. The following experience is important for the successful applicant:
1. Expertise in research on vocal communication and conducting field experiments such as playbacks or similar controlled behavioral tests, preferably with primates.
2. Proficiency in field observations and collecting behavioural data on social mammals, especially primates.
3. Experience in analyzing acoustic data, combining and working with datasets from different mammal species, and using multivariate analysis methods and programming in R.
4. Excellent communication and social skills, fluent in English, conversational in French, and team leading qualities.
Salary and Funding
Supported by a MPI post-doc contract (2+2 years) from the EBC funding.
Start and Term of Appointment
Starting January 2021
Comments
Applications including a cover letter stating research experience and interest, detailed curriculum vitae, and the names and e-mail addresses of three referees should be sent electronically to crockford@eva.mpg.de. Application deadline is 15 October 2020 or until position is filled thereafter.
Interviews will be held by the end of October 2020.
Contact Information
Catherine Crockford (crockford@eva.mpg.de) & Roman Wittig (wittig@eva.mpg.de)