Job openings in Ecology and Evolution

Please send job openings you would like to be posted on this page to Véronique Connolly.

Job listings
Graduate positions

Post-doctoral positions
Tenure-track positions
Others

Job listings:

Graduate positions:

  • University of New Brunswick Fredericton MSC GRADUATE PROJECT OPPORTUNITY: POPULATION GENETICS. I am seeking a graduate student to join a collaborative research program (funded by an NSERC Strategic Grant) on the ecology of the Bay of Fundy mudflats. These mudflats are densely inhabited by amphipods (Corophium volutator), which are the major prey of migrating shorebirds and fish. The successful candidate will join a multi-disciplinary collaboration between researchers at UNB, Carleton University, and Mount Allison University. Our aim is to model the environmental interactions between climate driven processes and the population dynamics of C. volutator throughout the mudflats in the Bay of Fundy.  Click here for more detail. (posted on 02/12/10)

  • PhD POSITION ON THE RUTTING ECOLOGY OF REINDEER/CARIBOU. 1 PhD research position in Biology is available in my lab starting September 2010. Issues to be addressed include but are not limited to: mating group dynamics, rutting behavior, activity pattern during rut, mate choice and mating tactics. This work is part of a large ongoing research program on “The ecology of reproduction of reindeer/caribou (Rangifer tarandus)” that takes place in northern Finland. The student will have the opportunity to use 3 years GPS data from about 40 individuals (females and males) that were installed fall 2008 and including activity sensors. This project involves field work in northern Finland and the candidate should be ready to work in remote areas and to work in team. Additional data will be collected by the candidate during the upcoming field seasons. Suitable candidates will have a M.Sc. in biology or similar degree at a recognized. The ideal candidate will have experience in field research settings, be determined to complete a PhD degree, have a good academic background (good GPA). Experience with GIS (ArcGIS, ArcView) and interest in quantitative ecology (statistics; individual based modeling) would be an asset. Financial support ($15000 per year) is available for this position for three years, but students eligible for external grant will be encouraged to apply to both FQRNT and NSERC. If successful, the student will receive a bonus. If interested, send me by email (rweladji@alcor.concordia.ca) before May 1st or until the position is filled: a copy of your CV, transcript and a short statement of purpose, as well as the name and email addresses of 3 references. Robert B. Weladji, Department of Biology, Concordia University, rweladji@alcor.concordia.ca (posted on 02/08/10)

  • MSc or PhD Positions in the Neuroendocrine Control of Behaviour. I am looking for graduate students (PhD or MSc) interested in comparative neuroanatomy and the neuroendocrince control of behaviour in birds and mammals.  There are several funded projects currently underway.  Techniques generally include immunohistochemistry, stereology, hormone assays and behavioural analyses, but opportunities also exist to learn three-dimensional reconstruction and electron microscopy.  There are also opportunities to collaborate with other research groups including University of Alberta, University of Maryland and several institutions overseas and to attend national and international conferences. To apply for one of these positions, please send your CV, list of courses, copies of your transcripts, a description of your research interests and why you are interested in one (or more) of the projects described above and the names of at least 2 references to Dr. Andrew Iwaniuk at andrew.iwaniuk@uleth.ca.  The positions will remain open until suitable individuals are accepted into the graduate program. Click here for more information. (posted on 01/27/10)

  • MSc Thesis Project on Rattlesnakes. An MSc project examining the response of rattlesnakes to anthropogenic disturbance within their summer habitat is expected to become available, with field work starting in the spring of this year (2010). Prospective students interested in learning more should contact Dr. Karl Larsen at Thompson Rivers University (klarsen@tru.ca), Kamloops, British Columbia. Please include with your email a CV and an unofficial copy of transcripts, and a brief explanation of how this project would mesh with research interests and career aspirations. (posted on 01/24/10)

  • The Canadian Facility for Ecoinformatics Research (CFER) in Biology at University of Ottawa is seeking an outstanding Ph.D. candidate for a new research project linking macroecology and global change biology. Current research at CFER explores a broad range of questions at the interface of these disciplines with additional focus on endangered species conservation and ecological applications of remote sensing. CFER currently hosts 4 MSc and 2 PhD students, and 3 postdoctoral researchers. CFER research productivity is high and we are extremely well equipped (see http://www.science.uottawa.ca/~jkerr <http://www.science.uottawa.ca/%7Ejkerr> for details). The student will join the Canada Global Change Transect (CGCT) project. The CGCT is an ambitious, national-scale, interdisciplinary project that seeks to: 1) directly observe the distribution of a large number of butterfly species through multiple regional transects to test whether species' ranges are shifting predictably in response to observed environmental changes 2) test and calibrate model predictions of butterfly species' ranges with transect observations to allow reliable predictions of future impacts of global change. Depending on the interest and quality of the applicant, the project offers considerable flexibility in designing a research program that investigates areas of personal interest within the overall framework of the project. Applicants should have demonstrated excellence in ecology and conservation biology and be capable of advanced statistical analysis. Experience in spatial ecology, entomology, and in the use of geographic information systems (GIS) or geomatics software are assets. Proficiency in spoken and written English are essential. Selection of a student will be based on academic achievements, reference letters and previous research experience. Students with their own scholarship support can expect additional support through CGCT and will be competitive for teaching assistanceships. Non-scholarship applicants will receive the standard uOttawa stipend: $18,500/year. Position is available starting May 2010. Interested candidates should e-mail (1) their transcript, (2) curriculum vitae, (3) a letter describing their research experience and interests (2 page limit), (4) recent TOEFL scores (if appropriate), and (5) the names and contact information of three references to Dr. Jeremy Kerr, 30 Marie Curie, Department of Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1N 6N5, Office phone: (613)562-5800, ext. 4577, Email: jkerr@uottawa.ca (posted on 01/08/10)
  • M.Sc. position in spider physiological ecology. Applications are invited from potential graduate students interested in studying exercise endurance, energy expenditure and reproductive success in male spiders. The student will be co-supervised by Matthias Foellmer and Gary Burness, at Trent University. The project will be conducted in collaboration with Maydianne Andrade and Jeff Stoltz from U Toronto at Scarborough, and a substantial part of the lab work will likely be done in Toronto. Therefore, a willingness and ability to live temporarily in Toronto (perhaps on the Scarborough campus) is a prerequisite.  Students with a background or interest in animal physiology, behavioural ecology, and/or evolution are encouraged to apply. Please send CV with names and contact information of two references and cover letter to either Matthias Foellmer or Gary Burness (via email). Applications will be accepted until a suitable candidate is found. Projected start date: May 2010. For more information please contact: Gary Burness  (garyburness@trentu.ca) or Matthias Foellmer (matthiasfoellmer@trentu.ca), Department of Biology, Trent University, Peterborough, Ontario. (posted on 01/04/10)

  • University of Guelph: Evolutionary Theory/Computational Biology/Theoretical Evolutionary Physiology. There is an MSc or PhD position available in the broad area of evolutionary theory in my lab.  Below I summarize current projects that I am working on and a student would be welcome to work on these or pursue their own line of research. Both projects that I am currently working on seek to understand how multivariate traits evolve.  In the first project, gene-genealogical approaches are used to model multivariate trait evolution.  In the second project, biophysical principles are used to model a multivariate trait, and the evolution of the multivariate trait and its underlying physiology is subsequently modeled.  This second project is currently focused on the multivariate trait associated with calcium signaling in animals. Most processes in biology are part of a multivariate context.  For instance, adaptation involves Hutchinson’s idealized concept of the multivariate niche.  Likewise, in applied problems such as agriculture, a challenge is to optimize multiple traits to maximize yield or sustainability.  In medicine, problems such as the adverse effects of medication are not related to the target of the medication, but side-effects with are of a multivariate nature.  The broad theme of research in my lab is to understand how evolution works in a multivariate context.  Part of the research is of an abstract nature, while other parts are applied.  With respect to applied components, calcium signaling is widely used in animals and is associated with health problems such as cancer and diseases of the heart.  For more information about my lab, my website is http://www.uoguelph.ca/ib/people/faculty/griswold.shtml.  A student can start in January or September of 2010. Contact information: Dr. Cortland Griswold, cgriswol@uoguelph.ca, 519-824-4120 ext. 56240. (posted on 12/16/09)
  • MSc positions in ant phylogenetic diversity and biogeographic linkages across the Mozambique Channel. Positions for MSc students are available to work on assessing the phylogenetic diversity and biogeographic linkages for ant species across the Mozambique Channel. The specific objectives of research in this project are to: 1. Generate and evaluate hypotheses of biotic diversification and biogeography using ants across the southwest Indian Ocean islands (SWIO) islands, and assess their relationships to the fauna of mainland Africa using mitochondrial and nuclear gene sequence data. 2. This project targets six genera from three ant subfamilies, Cerapachyinae, Myrmicinae and Pseudomyrmecinae, for detailed species-level revisions and phylogenetic analyses. These taxa are groups of considerable ecological and phylogenetic interest. 3. Some question to be asked include: (1) How many colonization events occurred from Africa to the SWIO islands for each genus? (2) What was the role, if any, of the Comoros islands as stepping stones? (3) Was there any backward movement from Madagascar to the African mainland or to other SWIO islands? (4) What was the timeframe for these dispersal events? (5) Are patterns of ant community change with elevation comparable to an ongoing project in Costa Rica? The specimens collected from the Seychelles, Tanzania and Mozambique will be permanently archived in the California Academy of Sciences where technicians will ensure that the ant specimens are shipped to Guelph. Here it will be the responsibility of the student filling this position to extract DNA, sequence and manage and analyse the data for these specimens in the BOLD datasystem (www.barcodinglife.org). An undergraduate background with courses and/or research experience in evolution, genetics, ecology, and basic molecular techniques is preferred. Motivated students with a keen interest in understanding the phylogenetics and biogeography of this interesting group of organisms would be ideal. This funded position will permit a student to take advantage of opportunities and research interests in the lab, but it is expected that the successful applicant will develop novel research hypotheses and approaches to testing these hypotheses. Interested students should submit a resume, unofficial transcript, a statement of research interests and arrange for three letters of reference to be sent by e-mail to:  Dr. Alex Smith (salex@uoguelph.ca). Expected start date will be May, 2010 and September, 2010. While all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply, Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada will be given priority. Dr. M. Alex Smith, Biodiversity Institute of Ontario, Department of Integrative Biology, University of Guelph (posted on 12/16/09)

Post-doctoral positions:

  • POSTDOCTORAL FELLOWSHIP in Plant Population Biology, Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Toronto.  A postdoctoral fellow is sought for collaborative research on the impacts of global change on plant evolution.  The lab is investigating selective forces on flowering phenology, the temporal genetic structure of populations, and introgression rates between migrants and resident populations when the two are phenologically distinct.  The successful candidate will have broad latitude in developing specific projects within these general themes, but field experiments will be based at Koffler Scientific Reserve, 50 km north of Toronto.  A background in population genetics and solid experience with microsatellites and/or other molecular techniques are required.  A Spring 2010 starting date is preferred.  Salary will be $40,000 CAD per year, for two years.  For more information on the lab, see http://labs.eeb.utoronto.ca/weis/.  Applicants should submit a CV, statement of interests and copies of publications/manuscripts to Arthur E. Weis at arthur.weis@utoronto.ca.  Review of files will start on 8 March 2010. (posted on 02/10/10)

  • Post-doctoral fellowship - Lobster Population Biology and Sustainable Fisheries. A post-doctoral fellowship will be available beginning in 2010, to develop the science basis for evaluating several conservation practices in Newfoundland. These practices include an officially designated Marine Protected Area, several locally initiated closed areas, v-notching, and release of large lobsters. The project will focus on reproductive value, an established concept in population biology that is rarely applied to fisheries. This is an opportunity to further develop the quantitative basis for evaluation of risks and policy in commercially exploited populations of long lived marine species. This project has a strong collaborative component, through the community-based CURRA project (www.curra.ca), working with the Fish Food and Allied Workers union (FFAW), and through ongoing collaboration with DFO-Oceans and DFO-Science Branch.  Position requires completed PhD in any area of quantitative biology, with experience in population biology and demographic models, and a record of successful publication of results. Position is for 1 year, renewable to 2 years. For more information on the project see www.mun.ca/osc/dschneider/lobster To apply, send a cover letter with Curriculum vitae to: David Schneider Professor, Ocean Sciences Centre Memorial University, St. John’s, Canada, David.Schneider@mun.ca, 709.737.8841, http://www.mun.ca/biology/dschneider/ http://www.mun.ca/osc/dschneider/ (posted on 02/02/10)

  • POSTDOCTORAL POSITION in Pollination and Biodiversity, combined appointment through Departments of Biological Sciences at University of Calgary and Simon Fraser University. As part of the NSERC-funded Canadian Pollinators Initiative (CANPOLIN), researchers Jana Vamosi [http://homepages.ucalgary.ca/~jvamosi/] and Elizabeth Elle [ http://www.sfu.ca/biology/faculty/elle/] invite applications for a two-year postdoctoral position requiring skills in pollination research. Individuals with experience in the development of datasets from disparate sources, considerable capacity for independent research, and strong quantitative abilities are preferred. Taxonomic skills in both plants and insects are a plus. The successful applicant will be responsible for developing and analyzing a dataset of pollination in native and nonnative Canadian plant species, and for helping to coordinate the efforts of ~20 researchers situated throughout Canada, all studying the abundance and diversity of pollinators and how they affect pollination within native and agroecosystems.This appointment is shared between University of Calgary and Simon Fraser University, but it is expected that the successful applicant will perform the majority of their responsibilities at the University of Calgary. The NSERC-CANPOLIN network is a consortium of 50 researchers in pollination biology and provides many collaborative opportunities [see http://www.uoguelph.ca/canpolin/ for more details]. To apply, please arrange to have a curriculum vitae, statement of research interests and plans, copies of two publications, and contact information for three references sent by email to Jana Vamosi [ jvamosi@ucalgary.ca ] and Elizabeth Elle [ elizabeth_elle@sfu.ca ] or by post to: Jana Vamosi, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, 2500 University Dr. NW, Calgary AB T2N1N4, Canada. Review of applications will begin on Feb 1, 2010 and continue until a suitable candidate is identified. Starting date is anticipated to be this spring or summer and is contingent on release of network funds. Salary and benefits will be competitive with NSERC postdoctoral fellowships and may include some additional funding for travel related to fulfilling responsibilities to CANPOLIN. Equity is a University policy; women, aboriginal peoples, members of visible minorities and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. (posted on 01/17/10)

Tenure-track positions:

  • Academic Vacancy - 10948 : Assistant/Associate Professor in Insect Systematics and Taxonomy. The Department of Entomology, Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences, University of Manitoba invites applications for a tenure track position at the rank of Assistant or Associate Professor, commencing July 1, 2010, or as soon as possible thereafter, to teach and conduct research in Insect Systematics and Taxonomy. The position will be weighted at approximately 45% teaching, 40% research and 15% service/outreach. Qualified applicants must possess: a Ph.D. in taxonomy and systematics of insects or closely related arthropods; a record of independent research as demonstrated by scholarly publications; the potential for developing a strong externally funded research program in one or more areas of insect systematics or taxonomy; demonstrated ability or potential for excellence in undergraduate and graduate teaching; and excellent oral and written communication skills. For more information on this opportunity, please visit: http://umanitoba.ca/cgi-bin/human_resources/jobs/view.pl?posting_id=83819 (posted on 02/27/10)

  • Tenure-Track Position in Biology, Algoma University
    Algoma University invites applications for a tenure-track faculty position or contract limited appointment in Biology at a junior level of Assistant Professor or at Lecturer, beginning July 1, 2010.  Applicants with expertise in molecular or cell biology, microbiology, genetics, and/or animal physiology, are encouraged to apply.  Applicants with at least partial research focus in invasive species biology will be particularly favoured; however, this is not a requirement for the position.  The successful candidate will have completed a Ph.D. and should have some teaching and postdoctoral research experience. The successful candidate will play an important role in driving the success of Algoma University’s newly proposed four-year honours program in Biology (anticipated to start Sept. 2010) through excellence in undergraduate teaching.  This candidate will also contribute to the growth of Algoma University’s research expertise by developing a successful research program within new laboratory space in the Biosciences and Technology Convergence Centre (to be completed March 2011).  The successful candidate will benefit from an environment which favours collaborative research in the areas of ecology, evolution, and animal behaviour.  Algoma University is also closely affiliated with federal and provincial forestry research centres (The Great Lakes Forestry Centre, The Ontario Forest Research Institute, and the new Invasive Species Centre), located in Sault Ste. Marie, which offer exceptional opportunities for collaboration. Algoma University is situated in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, at the northern edge of Ontario’s mixed hardwood forests, and in close proximity to an extensive tract of northern boreal forest. Sault Ste. Marie is noted for its proximity to a wealth of wilderness, and offers researchers ample access to fields, wetlands, peat lands, and aquatic systems. We encourage applicants to explore all that Sault Ste. Marie has to offer at www.city.sault-ste-marie.on.ca. Candidates should submit electronically: a letter of application, a CV, a research plan (up to two pages), a statement of teaching philosophy, and reprints of their three most significant publications to Dr. Arthur Perlini, Dean and Assoc. VP, Academic & Research via deanapps@algomau.caApplication materials should be submitted as a single combined PDF file with the file name identifying the applicant. Applicants must also arrange for three letters of reference to be sent electronically. Applications will be accepted until February 28, 2010, or until the position is filled.  This position is subject to budgetary approval. The position is open to all qualified applicants, although preference will be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada. The University is an inclusive and equitable campus encouraging applications from qualified women and men including persons with disabilities, members of visible minorities and Aboriginal persons. (posted 01/17/10)

Others:

  • Nyungwe Project Director, Wildlife Conservation Society, Africa Program. Job Description: WCS Africa program manages a broad variety of field-based conservation programs in 15 African countries.  WCS has worked in Rwanda since 1994 to rebuild infrastructure and financing required for effective conservation, to restore biodiversity in mountain forest protected areas, assess and survey wildlife populations, and educate the public about conservation. We are seeking a Nyungwe Project Director based in Gisakura, Rwanda, to oversee the implementation of project activities and supervise project staff, partners and develop management systems in and around Nyungwe National Park.  Qualifications: Candidates should hold postgraduate degree in conservation biology or related subject and at least 5 years experience working in similar field, preferably in Africa.  Fluency in English is essential and knowledge of French an advantage. For further information and how to apply for the advertised position please apply directly at http://www.wcs.org/about-us/careers.aspx (posted 02/07/10) 

  • Project Co-ordinator, Boreal Avian Modelling Project. The Boreal Avian Modelling Project is seeking a part-time Project Co-ordinator to facilitate program delivery for this national effort to provide predictive science on bird populations in Canada’s boreal forest. Click here for more information. (posted 01/14/10)

  • Research Coordinator, Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre. The Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre seeks a motivated, service-oriented person as Research Coordinator that recognizes the time sensitive nature of field-based research. The role of the Coordinator is to facilitate research at BMSC by providing infrastructure and logistical support to a large and diverse array of visiting scientists. The Coordinator ensures regulatory compliance and promotes safe research practices at the Centre. Research at BMSC covers the full range of marine sciences with a focus on marine biology. Research programs in biology range from molecular to ecosystem levels of organization. The Centre is well-equipped with facilities for molecular biology, physiology, biomechanics, ecology and evolutionary biology.  Several new buildings have substantially enhanced the available research space. Supervision of assistants during peak times will be required. BMSC also teaches university courses 8 months/year and runs concurrent Public Education programs. An ability to coordinate conflicting demands among researchers and among programs is essential. The ideal candidate will participate in ongoing research or have their own independent research program. Some funds and release time are available to support this research. Desired Qualifications and certifications: PhD in a relevant field, SCUBA diver, Small Vessel Operator Proficiency (SVOP), Radiation Safety training, Hazardous Waste training, Laser Safety training, Animal Care Certification (especially fish), Industrial First Aid, Class 4 Driver's License, Database and Website development, Ability to maintain, diagnose faults, and repair scientific equipment, Experience in maintaining microscopes, Excellent record keeping skills, Experience writing research grants. It is unlikely any one person will have all of these skills. BMSC prides itself on continuing education of staff. We encourage all talented individuals with a keen interest in Marine Science, and a desire to live in a smaller close-knit community, to apply. Bamfield is a charming village on the outer west coast of Vancouver Island best known as a summer sport fishing destination and the northern terminus of the West Coast Trail. It has a vibrant arts and music community. In addition, it provides diverse opportunities for outdoor recreation including kayaking and surfing. Additional information about BMSC can be found on our website www.bms.bc.ca. Links to community websites can be found there. Review of applications will begin 1.February.2010 and continue until the position is filled. The anticipated starting date is 1.April.2010. Salary will be commensurate with qualifications with benefits and holidays. Interested applicants should send their curriculum vitae and contact information for three references along with a cover letter to Dr. Brad Anholt, Director, Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre, 100 Pachena Rd, Bamfield, BC, V0R 1B0, Canada. An electronic version may be sent to director at bms.bc.ca. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, in accordance with Canadian Immigration requirements, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority. (posted on 01/06/10)

  • Fisheries Research Technician, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario. The Fish Ecology and Conservation Physiology Laboratory at Carleton University in Ottawa is currently seeking applications for the position of “Senior Fisheries Research Technician” for the period of April 1 2010 through October 30 2010 with the possibility of long-term extension depending upon performance and funding.  The successful applicant will be responsible for lab safety, equipment maintenance (for a fleet of four vehicles and three boats), training of new students and general lab organization and administration (e.g., ordering equipment, obtaining permits).  In addition, the technician will participate in a variety of student research projects across Canada (BC, QC, and ON primarily) and the northern US dealing with topics such as how fish respond to hydropower operations, recreational and commercial fishing, and environmental variation.  As such, the applicant must be willing and able to travel, spending approx. 50% of their time away from Ottawa living with students at field sites.  The applicant will also be expected to take a leadership role in several ongoing projects (e.g., fish inventories in eastern Ontario).  Applicants MUST be familiar with the safe and proper use of electrofishing equipment (both boat and backpack electrofishers), nets, boats, trucks, trailers and power tools, as well as being a proficient angler and having experience in fish taxonomy.  Although not essential, the ideal applicant would also have experience with biotelemetry and snorkeling.  A valid driver’s and boater’s license (ideally Marine Emergency Duties) is required and all applicants must be good swimmers and comfortable working and living in adverse conditions, often in remote locations.  Applicants must be excellent communicators, able to interact with a variety of stakeholders in a professional manner.  Evidence of exceptional problem solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to work both alone and as part of a team will be regarded highly in the evaluation process.  The position is open to applicants from all backgrounds (college, undergrad, post-grad) provided that they possess the skills and experience outlined above.  Start date is negotiable to some extent and salary will be $30,000 per annum including 3 weeks vacation. Applicants are asked to forward a letter outlining their interest and qualifications for the position, a list of two references with contact information, and an up-to-date resume or CV to Dr. Steven Cooke via email (steven_cooke@carleton.ca).  Applications are due Feb 5th 2010 although the search will remain open until a suitable candidate is found.  To learn more about the research activity in our lab please visit our website:  www.carleton.ca/fecpl (posted on 01/04/10)

 
 
 
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