Post-doctoral Research Fellow

Applications are sought for a committed Post-doctoral Research Fellow to work with Prof. Sonja Vernes conducting research for an ERC funded project entitled BATSPEAK.  The primary duties will be to conduct vocal learning related research working with our mammalian model of vocal learning. A strong background in animal behaviour and bioacoustics is required and knowledge of neuroscience is desirable. The successful applicant will have (or be near to completion of) a PhD in animal behaviour focussed on vocal learning, bioacoustics and/or social-vocal behaviour.  The applicant should have experience designing and performing high quality research, a critical and careful approach to laboratory work and record keeping and strive for robustness and reproducibility of results. Proficiency at organizing scientific documents and describing work in written or oral form is essential. Excellent communication skills and affinity for working closely with colleagues from multiply disciplinary backgrounds is also important.

The fellow will perform and lead research projects in the lab and must deliver the objectives and milestones set out within the project and as agreed with their line manager. This will involve devising, planning, and performing experimental work, as well as dissemination of said work. Dissemination will be via publication of original research articles and review articles in international journals - written and led by the fellow. The fellow is also expected to contribute to collaborative research with other lab members. Dissemination will also be performed via other means of communication including conference presentations/posters, and the fellow may have the opportunity to present work both internally and at international conferences and institutions. etc. The fellow must independently manage their own work to meet deadlines, including the preparation of internal written reports and draft publications.

The fellow will have good communication and inter-personal skills and be willing to contribute to the intellectual environment of the group. The fellow must be able to think flexibly and adapt to technical challenges and implement new approaches rapidly. The fellow will be responsible for supervising and mentoring students (including research and training responsibilities) and some teaching in the form of lecture or practical classes is expected.

The post is available for 12 months starting 1^st September 2024 or as soon as possible thereafter.

Further information and informal enquiries may be directed to Sonja Vernes, scv1@st-andrews.ac.uk

Applications are particularly welcome from the Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) community, and other protected characteristics who are under-represented in research posts at the University.  

Equality, diversity and inclusion are at the heart of the St Andrews experience and form a central pillar of the University Strategy.  We strive to create a fair and inclusive culture demonstrated through our commitment to diversity awards (Athena Swan, Carer Positive, LGBT Charter and Race Charters). We celebrate diversity by promoting profiles of BAME, LGBTIQ+ staff and supporting networks including the Staff BAME Network; Staff with Disabilities Network; Staff LGBTIQ+ Network; and the Staff Parents & Carers Network.  Full details available online: https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/hr/edi/

Closing Date: 19July 2024                       

We encourage applicants to apply online at www.vacancies.st-andrews.ac.uk/welcome.aspx, however if you are unable to do this, please call +44 (0)1334 461990 for an application pack. 

Please quote ref: AR3007RH                    

The University of St Andrews is a charity registered in Scotland (No SC013532).

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