Post-doc position in Evolutionary Ecology (3 years)
We recently discovered a gene that explains 40% of the variation
in age (and size) at maturity in Atlantic salmon that also resolves
intra-locus sexual conflict (Barson et al. 2015). However, we lack data
for understanding the behvioural and physiological mechanisms by which the
gene modifies age at maturity trajectories, as well as fitness estimates
demonstrating sexual conflict resolution.
The post-doc will be responsible for conducting and co-supervising
the evolutionary ecology research approaches of the project, which will
include experiments for studying reaction norms of fitness-related traits
in common garden and semi-natural conditions, mate-choice experiments and
analysis of long-term life history data series. Spending longer periods
at collaborator labs and field sites in Norway and northern Finland may
also be required. Experimental design and interpretation of results will
be coordinated with a second postdoc project with a functional genomics
focus that is being advertised simultaneously.
Suitable applicants will have a strong background in the design and
implementation of common garden experiments as well as in statistical
analysis and tools (e.g. R software) of evolutionary ecological data,
as demonstrated by publications on relevant topics. Experience with the
additional approaches noted above is an advantage, and experience in
evolutionary genetics and/or experience with fish husbandry.
Informal inquiries should be directed to Prof. Craig Primmer
(craig.primmer@utu.fi). Formal applications should include a CV (with
names and contact details of at least two referees), a publication
list and a max. 2 page letter of motivation and can be uploaded at
http://www.utu.fi/…/universi…/open-vacancies/Pages/home.aspx.
The deadline for applications is October 9, with the preferred starting
date being January 2017. The position is available until the end of 2019
with a further 2 year extension possible. The starting salary is ?3155 –
3500 EUR per month, depending on the previous relevant research experience
of the candidate.
Finland is a member of the EU, has high quality free schooling (also in
English) and healthcare and was recently ranked as the best country in the
world for expat families. Turku is Finland’s 5th largest city (183 000
people) and is located in southwestern Finland. It has a rich academic
and cultural history and is the gateway to a beautiful archipelago. The
University of Turku is one of the major multidisciplinary universities
in Finland and is ranked in the top 1.6% of universities in the world.
Barson et al. (2015) Sex-dependent dominance at a single locus maintains
variation in age at maturity in salmon. Nature 528:405–408.
See also Aykanat T et al. 2015. Low but significant genetic
differentiation underlies biologically meaningful phenotypic divergence
in a large Atlantic salmon population. Molecular Ecology 24, 5158–5174
Johnston et al. 2014. Genome-wide SNP analysis reveals a genetic basis
for sea-age variation in a wild population of Atlantic salmon (Salmo
salar). Molecular Ecology 23:3452–3468.
Craig Primmer, Professor of Genetics
Room 332, 3rd floor, Natura Building
Division of Genetics and Physiology
Department of Biology,
20014, University of Turku, FINLAND
Mobile +358 40 1560 365
craig.primmer@utu.fi
http://users.utu.fi/primmer
Twitter: @FishConGen