Applications are invited for a two year postdoctoral position in the Centre for Biological Diversity at the University of St Andrews. The postdoc will conduct evolutionary quantitative genetic studies of selection and genetic variation of ecologically important traits throughout the lifecycle of Soay sheep (Ovis aries). The overall aim of the project is to understand how accounting for selection early in life can change/improve inference of selection throughout the entire life cycle. The project is funded by a NERC Standard Grant entitled “Resolving the paradox of stasis: addressing the missing fraction problem”.

The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of one or more of the following skills: field work at remote locations, statistical analysis, especially mixed model-based methods (incl. implementation in R or python), knowledge of evolutionary quantitative genetic theory, and scientific writing skills. The successful candidate will have excellent opportunities to further improve and develop these skills. Prior experience in long-term animal systems is not necessary; interest in the mechanics of evolution on generation-to-generation time scales is key. Main duties will include designing and conducting analyses of existing data and preparation of manuscripts. The successful candidate will be encouraged to participate in long-term data collection as part of the 35+ year intensive, individual-based, long-term study of Soay sheep on St Kilda. The project will also support participation in local and international conferences.

The University of St Andrews School of Biology is committed to promoting equality of opportunity for all, and was awarded the Athena SWAN Silver award in 2018 for its sustained progression and achievement in advancing equality and representation.

The School particularly welcomes applications from those suitably qualified from underrepresented minorities. The School values equality and diversity across its workforce and offers a family friendly environment in which flexible working is encouraged; we strive to hold important meetings/seminars within core hours of 09.15 to 14.45. In addition, a broad variety of measures are currently being introduced to ensure effective career progression for everyone and to eradicate the historical underrepresentation of females at higher professional levels.

The University is committed to equality for all, demonstrated through our working on diversity awards (ECU Athena SWAN/Race Charters; Carer Positive; LGBT Charter; and Stonewall). More details can be found at http://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/hr/edi/diversityawards/.

Please direct informal inquiries to Michael Morrissey: mbm5@st-andrews.ac.uk

Please ensure you attached a two page (max) cover letter detailing your research interests.

School of Biology/

Centre for Biological Diversity

Salary: £33,797 - £35,845 per annum

Fixed Term: 2 years

Start: 1 May 2020 or as mutually agreed