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The Department of Behavioural Biology in the Faculty of Biology at the University of Münster, Germany, is seeking to fill the position of a
Doctoral Research Associate
Wissenschaftliche*r Mitarbeiter*in
(salary level TV-L E 13, 65%)
within the DFG-funded project “Patterns, determinants and ecological consequences of individualized landscapes of fear” and commencing at the earliest possible date. We are offering a part-time position (65% FTE) for 3 years (corresponding to the project’s duration).
Your tasks
We are seeking a highly motivated candidate interested in behavioural ecology. The aims of the DFG-funded PhD project are to further illuminate determinants and consequences of individual variation in landscapes of fear. Using small mammals (voles and mice) as the main study species, the successful candidate will further develop and perform experiments in the laboratory and under near natural conditions. Specifically, we aim to test whether and how individuals mitigate the costs of fear during foraging and whether and how individual differences in perceived predation risk are related to animal personality and copying styles. Further, we will experimentally test the consequences of among-individual variation in the landscape of fear related to biodiversity at the resource level. The successful candidate will be involved in all stages of the scientific method, including experimental design, project coordination, data collection and analyses, collaboration with other researchers, and the delivery of results to the research communityvia talks and poster presentations and writing of scientific publications for peer-reviewed journals. This position is tied to working towards a doctorate.
Our expectations
- A successfully completed M.Sc. (or equivalent degree) in behavioural biology, ecology, evolutionary biology or a related field is required.
- A sound knowledge of and strong interest in behavioural biology, evolutionary ecology and animal ecology is advantageous.
- Experience in behavioural observation and/or ecological experiments (laboratory or field) is advantageous.
- Experience in the handling of small mammals and, if possibly, certified proof thereof (e.g. FELASA B), is advantageous.
- Good knowledge of statistical data analysis, preferably using R, is a plus.
- Experience in thermography, automated video analysis or respirometry is a plus.
- Good organizational, writing and presentation skills, as well as the ability to work well both independently and in an international team environment, are advantageous.
- Very good knowledge of spoken and written English is mandatory. German language skills are not a requirement, but a willingness to learn is desirable.
We offer you
- The opportunity to prepare a PhD as part of the Münster Graduate School of Evolution (www.unimuenster.de/Evolution/mgse)
- Promotion of your own independent research work
- Support for further qualifications in science and teaching
- A research environment within an international, diverse, and committed team
- • A family-friendly work environment
Research environment
The research of the working group lead by Prof Melanie Dammhahn combines fundamental areas of organismic biology (behavioural biology, ecology and evolutionary biology) and investigates the foundations of behaviour. Current projects focus on among-individual differences and phenotypic plasticity in key components of animal behaviour (risk-taking, energy management, foraging and decision-making) and investigate the patterns, evolutionary determinants and ecological consequences of this variation. Furthermore, we study the adjustment of mammals to rapid humaninduced environmental change.
The University of Münster strongly supports equal opportunity and diversity. We welcome all applicants regardless of sex, nationality, ethnic or social background, religion or worldview, disability, age, sexual orientation or gender identity. We are committed to creating family-friendly working conditions.
We actively encourage applications by women. Women with equivalent qualifications and academic achievements will be preferentially considered unless these are outweighed by reasons which necessitate the selection of another candidate.
If you have any further questions, please contact Melanie Dammhahn (mdammhah@unimuenster.de).
Please send your application, in English, by email, including the following documents: cover letter, curriculum vitae including – if available – a list of publications and presentations at scientific conferences, a letter of motivation (maximum two pages) including your research interests and experiences relevant to the position, certificates and affiliations of two academic references) all combined into one PDF file (max. size 5 MB) by 19. October 2023 to ethologie@uni-muenster.de (Subject line: PhD position). The application documents will be deleted six months after the application process is completed.
University of Münster
Department of Behavioural Biology
Prof Melanie Dammhahn
Badestraße 13, 48149 Münster, Germany
Email: ethology@uni-muenster.de / mdammhah@uni-muenster.de
Phone: +49(0)251 83 21222
Website: www.ethologie.de / www.melanie-dammhahn.com