Research Assistant - Primate Natal Coats

Location: Singleton Campus, Swansea

About The University

Swansea University is a research-led university that has been making a difference since 1920. The University community thrives on exploration and discovery and offers the right balance of excellent teaching and research, matched by an enviable quality of life.

Our stunning waterfront campuses and multicultural community make us a desirable workplace for colleagues from around the world. Our reward and benefits, and ways of working enable those who join us to have enriching careers, matched by an excellent work-life balance.

About The Role

This is an opportunity for a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to work on a major unanswered question in primate colouration: why the infants of many primate species have conspicuous colouration. For example, in Hatinh langur (Trachypithecus hatinhensis) adults are black while but infants are bright orange. The project will investigate multiple hypotheses for why it might be advantageous for the most vulnerable members of a social group to stand out visually.

The successful candidate will join the Evolutionary and Sensory Ecology Lab to work on the NSF-BBSRC funded project “Primate natal coats: Form and function” in collaboration with the Primate Reproductive Ecology and Evolution group at New York University. They will join mid-way through the overall project, and have opportunity to lead a short project on primate natal colouration designed in collaboration with the lead investigators, and contribute to other ongoing project components. This will include data analysis and manuscript preparation, and would suit a candidate looking to build expertise and a record of publications in sensory and evolutionary ecology.

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

The University is committed to supporting and promoting equality and diversity in all its practices and activities. We aim to establish an inclusive environment and welcome diverse applications from the following protected characteristics: age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race (including colour, nationality, ethnic and national origin), religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation.

We have an under-representation of women in the area of research and would particularly welcome applications from women for this position. We also have an under representation of individuals from ethnic minority backgrounds and would encourage applications from these groups. Appointments will always be made on merit.

As an inclusive and welcoming workplace, we value people for their skills regardless of their background. Applications are welcome in Welsh and will not be treated less favourably than those submitted in English.

Additional Information

Applications for this role will take the format of a CV submission and cover letter.

Closing Date: 8 December 2024

Interview Date: 16 December 2024

Informal Enquiries

• Dr William Allen w.l.allen@swansea.ac.uk
• Prof James Higham j.higham@nyu.edu

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