PhD-position on the causes and consequences of between group conflicts in vervet monkeys ~ Bioblogia.net

18 de febrero de 2011

PhD-position on the causes and consequences of between group conflicts in vervet monkeys

Hiring Organization:
Anthropological Institute and Museum, University of Zurich
Winterthurerstrasse 190 8057 Zurich, Switzerland

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, e.g. 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 curriculum vitae (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.



Dr. Erik P. Willems
Postdoctoral Researcher
Anthropological Institute and Museum
University of Zurich
Winterthurerstrasse 190
8057 Zurich
Tel: +41-(0)4463 55435
Fax: +41-(0)4463 56804

e.willems@aim.uzh.ch

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