The project is led by Assoc. Prof Camille Leblanc and Prof Bjarni K. Kristjánsson. It is part of a large collaboration across Hólar University, Iceland (Prof. Skúli Skúlason), University of Edinburgh (Dr. Kasha Strickland, Dr. Elizabeth Mittell), University of St. Andrews, Scotland (Dr. Michael Morrissey) and University of Jyväskylä, Finland (Assoc. Prof. Katja Räsänen).
The phenotype is an important determinant of the dynamic interactions between ecological and evolutionary processes. However, to date, there is limited understanding of how spatio-temporal variation in phenotypes is related to fitness in the wild. Our study uses longitudinal data across a unique system of sixteen isolated small populations of Arctic charr (Salvelinus alpinus) inhabiting lava caves near lake Mývatn, Iceland. Individual-based data has been collected from these populations since 2012. This study system allows us to ask questions about the interplay between phenotypic traits (e.g. growth and morphology) and fitness (reproductive success and survival) and how ecological factors shape this relationship in space and time.
We are looking for a highly motivated postdoctoral candidate with strong quantitative skills, which will be applied to this unique study system. The post-doctoral fellow has the opportunity to: 1) use molecular tools to establish genetic pedigrees and assess reproductive success; 2) use mark-recapture data to estimate survival; and 3) combine these with individual-based phenotypic data to understand the interplay between ecological, phenotypic and fitness variation. The postdoctoral fellow will have opportunities to develop the focus of their work and will be encouraged to further develop their research career by opportunities in developing spin off projects, and through student supervision.
Location: The candidate will be based at the Dept. of Aquaculture and Fish Biology (DAFB - http://holaraquatic.is) at Hólar University (HU, North Iceland). The candidate is also encouraged to spend time at the institutes of the collaborators. HU is situated in the beautiful village of Hólar (Skagafjördur), with offices and research laboratories in the nearby town Sauðárkrókur. DAFB is an active research centre, where the postdoc is part of a dynamic international team of graduate students and faculty. The beautiful natural setting and central location in North of Iceland, allow both outdoor and cultural activities.
Requirements: The candidate must hold a PhD degree in Ecology or Evolution or a related discipline. The ideal candidate should have a strong interest in evolutionary ecology and strong quantitative skills. A background in bioinformatics and/or analysis of quantitative genetic and/or long-term data sets would be an advantage. The candidate should have shown ability to publish their own findings, enjoy working in a dynamic group, and have experience with fieldwork. The candidate should be able to work independently as well as a part of a team.
The working language is English. A valid driving license is a requirement.
This is a 100% position for three years. Salary is in accordance with the current collective wage and salary agreement between the relevant union, and the Minister of Finance in Iceland. Rights and obligations follow the Act 70/1996 on the Rights and Obligations of Civil Servants.
Applicants should send an application letter, labelled with their name, with a statement of research interests and relevant experience (max. 2 pages), curriculum vitae with a list of publications, copies of academic qualifications and the names and e-mail addresses of three referees, as a single pdf to bjakk@holar.is. The deadline for application is May 1.
For further information contact Dr Bjarni K. Kristjánsson (bjakk@holar.is) or Dr. Camille Leblanc (camille@holar.is).