Post Doctoral Research Associate in Evolutionary PalaeobiologySchool of Natural Sciences

We have an opportunity for an enterprising and motivated individual to work with Dr Marcello Ruta (Principal Investigator, School of Natural Sciences) on phylogenetic, macroevolutionary, and macroecological aspects of tetrapod origin and diversification. The post is funded by a Leverhulme Trust Research Project Grant entitled ‘Key Innovations as Evolutionary Drivers of the Fish-Tetrapod Transition’, in partnership with the Universities of Bath (Co-Investigator Professor Matthew Wills) and Uppsala (Co-Investigator Professor Per Ahlberg).

As part of an overarching investigation into evolutionary patterns and processes in early tetrapods and their fish-like forerunners, you will tackle the early divergence of amniotes and amniote-like groups (chiefly Palaeozoic and earliest Mesozoic), disentangling the impact of various categories of skeletal data in resolving phylogenetic patterns near the ancestral roots of amniotes. The project involves meticulous vetting of existing and newly assembled osteological character databases, building new time-calibrated phylogenies using a variety of approaches (e.g., maximum parsimony; Bayesian inference), and utilizing these phylogenies to quantify evolutionary rates, directionality of trends, and patterns of morphological space occupation.

You will have (or approach completion of) a PhD in Zoology or Palaeontology with a strong phylogenetic/macroevolutionary component. A good knowledge of vertebrate comparative anatomy and evolution and proficiency in quantitative methods in palaeobiology are desirable.

If you would like further information or an informal discussion about this exciting opportunity, please contact Dr Marcello Ruta, Associate Professor, at mruta@lincoln.ac.uk.

You can find out more about working at Lincoln, and everything that we have to offer, at: https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/jobopportunities/

We strive for a diverse workforce with the very best employees and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all. The University encourages applications from underrepresented groups inclusive of Black, Asian and other minoritised/marginalised ethnic groups, all gender identities and expressions from the LGBTQIA+ community, candidates with a disability, and those that practise different faiths and beliefs, to enhance our One Community where we strive to be kind, patient, and supportive of each other.

Please note: If you think you may require a visa to work in the UK, please refer to UK Visas and Immigration or UK Visas – Information for Prospective Staff before embarking upon an application, to ensure that you understand the requirements for sponsorship. You may be eligible to work in the UK via other alternative visa routes such as the Global Talent Visa or by having Settlement / ILR; please refer to the UK Visas pages above for further details.

Closing Date: Wednesday 30 April 2025
Interview Date: Wednesday 14 May 2025

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