PhD project: Functional variation in arthropod performance across agro-ecosystems

Applications are invited for a PhD position at the Graduate School of Natural Sciences, Aarhus University, Denmark, within the Biology program.

The specific PhD project takes an experimental approach to understand the factors that drive variation in arthropods and its consequences for arthropod performance across agro-ecosystems. It tests hypotheses about the link between land use, distribution of genetic diversity and population declines in selected arthropod species with essential roles as pollinators and decomposers. The key focus is therefore on measuring population variation in life history and stress-related phenotypic traits in populations of springtails and butterflies, and interpreting these results in relation to already available data on population genomic variation as well as spatial and temporal data on land use. Specifically, the project will 1) investigate population variation in reproductive traits, decomposition, immune performance and population growth in species of Collembola, 2) use common garden experiments to test hypotheses about local adaptation in species of Collembola, 3) test hypotheses about adaptation and plasticity of dispersal ability in species of butterflies. The details of the project will be planned with the interests of the successful candidate in mind. 

The successful applicant will participate in a project lodged within the work of the Centre for Ecological Genetics (https://bio.au.dk/forskning/forskningscentre/centre-for-ecological-genetics). The centre, led by Prof. Trine Bilde, investigates the population genetic consequences of the dramatic declines observed in insect diversity and abundance, and the potential consequences for their ability to perform ecosystem services such as pollination and natural pest control. The centre provides an active and diverse international group of researchers and students with groups in Aberdeen, Helsinki and Aarhus. In addition to colleagues at the Department of Biology, Aarhus University, particularly Prof. Marjo Saastamoinen, University of Helsinki (http://www.helsinki.fi/life-history-evolution), provides potential close collaboration and opportunity for exchange. The work will be done under the supervision of Prof. Jesper Givskov Sørensen (AU). Co-supervision will be provided by Prof. Trine Bilde and Assoc. Prof. Tove Hedegaard Jørgensen (AU), and Prof. Marjo Saastamoinen (Helsinki), depending on the developed PhD project. 

Up to 3 months trial and assessment period: It is possible to apply for a grant to visit the Department for up to 3 months prior to the start of the position, to investigate whether this is the right match for both student and supervisors. This is enabled through an application from the supervisor to the Graduate School of Natural Sciences.

Qualifications 

An MSc or BSc degree in Biology or a similar relevant subject. A strong interest in experimental work and data analysis is required - along with the ability to communicate scientific work. Experience with insect (eco)physiology, and a strong background in evolutionary biology is highly valuable. 

Enrolment for the PhD degree is subject to academic approval by the Graduate School. The candidate will be enrolled in the Biology program at the Graduate School of Natural Sciences https://phd.nat.au.dk/ at Aarhus University.

We offer

Place of Employment and Place of Work: 

The place of employment is Department of Biology, Aarhus University, Denmark, and the place of work is the section for Genetics, Ecology and Evolution, Ny Munkegade 114-116, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark 

The Department of Biology at Aarhus University is one of the largest at the Faculty of Natural Sciences housing 207 staff members and more than 450 enrolled students including 40-60 PhD students.

In the section Genetics, Ecology and Evolution we study the evolution of life and adaptation of living organisms to the surrounding environment – also known as the study of evolutionary biology. For example, we investigate how organisms adapt to temperature changes, the evolution of species-specific mating systems and host-parasite interactions. Our research contributes to an understanding of the interactions between genetic and plastic mechanisms on one hand and temporal changes in population parameters on the other – and how these interactions enable or prevent adaptations to natural and man-made environmental changes. In addition, our work adds to greater understanding of evolutionary interactions between animals, plants and pathogens. We exploit and develop methods used in experimental evolution, population genetics and genomics, network analyses and field experiments.

Appointment terms 

The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. More information on the Graduate School of Natural Sciences https://phd.nat.au.dk/

The period of employment with an MSC degree is 3 years, and with an BSc degree up to 4 years (please enquire). The position is available from 1st August 2024 (but starting date is flexible). 

Further information 

Further information may be obtained from Prof. Jesper Givskov Sørensen [Email Address Removed]

You can read more about the EcoGenetics Centre at https://bio.au.dk/forskning/forskningscentre/centre-for-ecological-genetics

Application procedure 

Please contact us to discuss research interests etc prior to your application. The official date of application is 1 May 2024 (23:59 Danish time), apply online to the Graduate School of Natural Sciences https://phd.nat.au.dk/

If you are interested in the screening grant or in visiting prior to application, please contact Jesper Givskov Sørensen [Email Address Removed]

Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:

• A letter motivating the application (cover letter)
• Curriculum vitae 
• Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (in English) including official description of grading scale

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, race, disability, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.

At the Faculty of Natural Science at Aarhus University, we strive to support our scientific staff in their career development. We focus on competency development and career clarification and want to make your opportunities transparent. On our website, you can find information on all types of scientific positions, as well as the entry criteria we use when assessing candidates. You can also read more about how we can assist you in your career planning and development.