MaBS

Mathematics and
BioSciences Group

University of Vienna

Faculty of Mathematics
Nordbergstrasse 15
A-1090 Vienna, Austria

Max F. Perutz Laboratories
Dr. Bohrgasse 9
A-1030 Vienna, Austria

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    Ines Hellmann
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Positions

PhD-position in theoretical evolutionary biology

A 3-year PhD-position in theoretical evolutionary biology is available in the Mathematics and BioSciences Group at the University of Vienna. The successful applicant will work with Michael Kopp on a recently funded project aimed at studying the genetic basis of adaptation to changing environments. Other project partners include Joachim Hermisson, Reinhard Bürger (both University of Vienna) and Thomas Lenormand (CNRS Montpellier).

The project will be based on the "moving optimum model" of adaptation to gradually changing environments (see recent Genetics papers by Kopp and Hermisson). This model shall be extended by including adaptation from standing genetic variation and evolution of multiple correlated traits, using a combination of methods from mathematical population genetics and computer simulations. As part of the project, the student will have the opportunity to spend several months in Montpellier to work with T. Lenormand.

Applicants should be either biologists with good knowledge of mathematics or applied mathematicians/physicists/computer scientists with a strong interest in evolutionary biology. Previous experience in population genetics will be an asset. Knowledge of German is not required.

Informal inquiries as well as formal applications (including a statement of research interests, a CV and contact information for two academic references, in a single PDF file) should be addressed to michael.kopp@univie.ac.at. Review of applications will start June 15 and continue until the position is filled (new applications are still accepted!). The ideal starting date is October 2010, but this is flexible and can be negotiated.

Vienna is one of the most attractive cities worldwide, and its scientific community provides a vibrant and stimulating environment with a unique depth of expertise in different areas of both theoretical and empirical evolutionary biology (see www.evolvienna.at). The monthly gross salary is around 1850 Euros.

Furthermore...

... new opportunities may always arise, and interested students are encouraged to contact Joachim Hermisson or one of the staff members. We can then talk about future job openings, joint grant applications etc. However, to receive consideration, please make clear your specific interest in mathematical biology and in the work of our group, as well as your specific qualifications. Inquiries without any direct relation to our work will not be answered.

Master or Diploma Theses

Students of Mathematics, Biology, Physics, or a related science, who have an interested in theoretical evolutionary biology and plan to do a practical course or thesis in this area are always encouraged to contact us.