Umeå University, Faculty of Science and Technology

Umeå University is one of Sweden’s largest higher education institutions with over 37,000 students and about 4,700 employees. The University offers a diversity of high-quality education and world-leading research in several fields. Notably, the groundbreaking discovery of the CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing tool, which was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry, was made here. At Umeå University, everything is close. Our cohesive campuses make it easy to meet, work together and exchange knowledge, which promotes a dynamic and open culture.

The ongoing societal transformation and large green investments in northern Sweden create enormous opportunities and complex challenges. For Umeå University, conducting research about – and in the middle of – a society in transition is key. We also take pride in delivering education to enable regions to expand quickly and sustainably. In fact, the future is made here.

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The Department of Ecology and Environmental Science invites applicants for a PhD student position on the effects of fragmentation of river networks by dams on the genetic composition of riverine plant species. The position will start in June 2019 or according to agreement. Apply before April 15th, 2019.

Project description
This project integrates genomic methods and ecological modeling to assess the effect of landscapes on evolutionary processes. We use recent conceptual and methodological advances in genetics and spatial ecology to study patterns in gene flow and how this is influenced by landscape structure and obstruction of dispersal pathways by land-use activities. The project will use genetic markers to infer how dispersal of riverine plants has been affected by dams in regulated rivers. We will also evaluate the distribution of genetic diversity along the river course in selected plant species. We test (1) whether dams are barriers to plant dispersal, resulting in isolated populations with higher genetic differentiation between sites separated by dams than between populations in the same impoundment or among sites in free-flowing rivers, and (2) whether the downstream increase in genetic diversity of riverine plants documented in many species is absent or less pronounced in rivers fragmented by dams. The results of the project will help manage regulated rivers with the aim to conserve riverine plant communities.

Qualifications
We seek a candidate with relevant academic background (genetics, ecology, or equivalent subject) with interest in using genetic methods to understand landscape ecological processes. Experience with genetic analyses and laboratory work using genetic methods are required.

Experience of population genetic analyses, high throughput genotyping methods and knowledge of bioinformatics are meriting. The candidate should be creative, show initiative, independence and good social skills, and have a very good command in both oral and written English. Evaluation will be based on the individual letter, quality and relevance of master thesis and other publications, the interview, and the candidate’s performance in a literature essay given after the interview.

The recruitment procedure for the position is in accordance with the Higher Education Ordinance. Prerequisites for PhD studies include a degree on Master level, or 240 ECTS credits of higher education studies of which 60 should be on an advanced level (Master level), or an equivalent qualification. This position specifically requires 120 ECTS credits in a subject relevant for ecology.

Terms for the employment
The employment is expected to result in a doctoral degree and the main assignment for the doctoral student is thus to be part of the research education, which includes participation in the described research project but also to take relevant courses. Teaching and other departmental work (up to a maximum of 20%) can be included. The employment is limited to four years at full time or up to five years if teaching and other departmental work is performed. The salary is fixed according to the established salary level for doctoral students.

Application
You apply through our recruitment system no later than April 15th, 2019. The application may be written in Swedish or English, and should include:

  • A short letter (max 2 pages) describing your research interests and why you are interested in the position
  • CV, including academic achievements
  • Digital copies of Bachelor/Master thesis
  • List of publications
  • Certificates from higher education and other documentation that supports your application
  • Contact information of three reference persons.

Contact
If you have questions regarding the position, please contact Roland Jansson, tel +4690-786 9573, e-mail roland.jansson@umu.se, or Xiao-Ru Wang, tel+4690-786 9955, e-mail xiao-ru.wang@umu.se.

The Department of Ecology and Environment Sciences, Umeå University, performs research and research education in ecology, environmental science and physical geography. The department has 150 employees of which 30 are PhD students. For more information, visit EMG's webb page

Type of employment Temporary position
Contract type Full time
First day of employment June 2019
Salary Monthly salary
Number of positions 1
Full-time equivalent 100%
City Umeå
County Västerbottens län
Country Sweden
Reference number AN 2.2.1-338-19
Union representative
  • SACO, 090-786 53 65
  • SEKO, 090-786 52 96
  • ST, 090-786 54 31
Published 01.Mar.2019
Last application date 15.Apr.2019 11:59 PM CEST

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