Estudia el comportamiento de aves de Nueva Caledonia: investigación centrada en biología reproductiva del cuco y su hospedador

Oferta compartida por Cristina

The role of early environment and physiology on phenotypic variation of nestlings in an avian coevolutionary arms race


We are looking for a highly motivated PhD student to join the Behavioural Ecology Group at the Museum and Institute of Zoology of the Polish Academy of Sciences in Warsaw (Poland). The student will conduct research on the environmental and physiological mechanisms determining phenotypic variation in nestlings of fan-tailed gerygone (Gerygone flavolateralis) from New Caledonia.


Short description: In New Caledonia the brood-parasitic shining bronze-cuckoo (Chalcites lucidus) and its exclusive host the fan-tailed gerygone have nestlings occurring in two discrete colour morphs, either pink-grey (bright) or dark-grey (dark). The cuckoo nestlings mimic the gerygone nestlings but, despite mimicry and phenotypic variation, host parents discriminate and eject the cuckoo nestling from the nest. Our research has focused on the breeding biology of host and parasite, cognitive mechanisms underlying host’s recognition of the parasite nestling and genetic basis of nestling colour. However, we still know little about the role of ecological and physiological mechanisms in determining nestling phenotypic variation.

Work description: We will conduct fieldwork in a well-established site on the main island of Grand Terre in New Caledonia for 3-4 months per year during the period September – January. The objectives of the main research project will be to investigate if the host nestling phenotype 1) depends on the mother’s condition and changes in incubation patterns, 2) depends on nest environment during incubation and 3) is associated with physiological differences in immune and stress response. Additionally, the PhD candidate will have ample possibilities to develop complementary research. Depending on the student interests, it will be possible to participate in molecular work (genetics and corticosteroid analysis).

Salary: the project is financed by the Polish National Science Center and will grant a scholarship of 5000 PLN for 4 years.

Additional info: full description of the project, candidate requirements and additional info can be found at https://www.miiz.waw.pl/en/ogloszenia/oferty-pracy

How to apply: please send 1) cover letter (max 1 page), 2) CV with contact details of 2 referees, 3) copy of the M.Sc. certificate and 4) filled application form to the BioPlanet doctoral school (https://szkoladoktorska-bioplanet.pl/en/downloadable-forms/) to dr. Alfredo Attisano (aattisano@miiz.waw.pl). Deadline: 26/02/2023

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Trabaja en el lab de una empresa genética enfocada en acuicultura

Oferta compartida por Nuria

Xelect Ltd is a leading aquaculture genetics service provider, based in StAndrews, Scotland, providing genetic services to the aquaculture industry worldwide, serving customers in 20 countries. We offer complete genetics support to breeding programmes for multiple species of fish and shellfish, alongside expert consultancy on broodstock and aquaculture operations.

Xelect has well equipped offices, a modern genetics laboratory and DNA sequencing facility. Our core business is breeding programme management services which requires routine genotyping of broodstock samples throughout the year, as well as additional express genetics services for small producers. Xelect also offers a unique staff development programme which includes staff training, seminars and tradeshow attendance.

We are seeking to appoint a dynamic and highly motivated professional to join our growing laboratory team based at our headquarters in St. Andrews, Scotland. The successful candidate will be responsible for performing routine laboratory procedures in accordance to well documented SOPs, to ensure smooth delivery of our services. This requires flexibility, high accuracy and efficiency in a fast-paced and rapidly changing environment. The candidate will have a good understanding of molecular biology techniques, as well as the ability to process and analyse data and subsequent compiling of client reports when needed. They will also be expected to have excellent organisational and time management abilities, be able to work effectively as a member of a team and have outstanding interpersonal and communication skills.

Essential skills:

• BSc, MSc and/or PhD in molecular biology & genetics or proven relevant academic or industrial experience.
• Strong expertise and knowledge in a range of molecular techniques, particularly DNA extraction, PCR, qPCR, SNP genotyping and preparing libraries for Next Generation Sequencing.
• Strong attention to detail and adherence to SOPs & GLPs.
• Ability to work as part of a team and independently when required.
• Ability to foresee and troubleshoot issues independently.
• Proven time management and efficiency.
• Excellent data recording and management, and computer literacy skills.

Desirable skills:

• Practical experience with emerging sequencing technologies (e.g. Illumina, Oxford Nanopore etc).
• Proficiency with programming languages such as R and Python.
• Bioinformatics training
• Basic knowledge of statistics.
• Basic knowledge of aquaculture breeding and genetics.

Further details:

Permanent position. 

Full time; Monday to Friday working week

Ability to reliably commute / relocate to St Andrews 

Competitive salary, depending on experience.

To apply please send a current CV and a covering letter to hello@xelect.co.uk, along with contact details of two referees. References will only be contacted after a successful interview

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