Department of Ecology

We are seeking a researcher to develop and implement tools for analyzing results from Bayesian inference of phylogenetic models.

About the Job

A research position is available in Mariana Braga’s group at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) in Uppsala, Sweden. Research in the Evolving Networks lab (evonetslab.github.io) focuses on understanding how species interactions change over time and space, with an emphasis on interactions between butterfly larvae and plants, as well as the development of phylogenetic methods. EvonetsLab is funded by a Starting Grant from the European Research Council and a DDLS Fellowship from SciLifeLab and the Wallenberg Swedish program for data-driven life science. This is a permanent position linked to a time-limited project.

The selected candidate will work within the development team for TreePPL (www.treeppl.org), a universal probabilistic programming language and new software for phylogeny. The chosen candidate will be responsible for the project’s user interface, through the development of the R package treepplr (www.github.com/treeppl/treepplr). The work will involve developing and implementing methods to test model accuracy, inference diagnostics, model comparisons, and visualization of output from various models, including host repertoire evolution, tree inference, and diversification.

The working language of the research group is English, so applicants must be fluent in English. To perform the tasks, the applicant must be able to take initiative and work independently. The applicant must be solution-oriented and inventive when it comes to solving technical problems. We place great importance on personal qualities such as teamwork ability. The selected candidate will work closely with other group members, which places high demands on good communication skills, willingness to collaborate, and reliability.

Your Background

We are looking for a highly motivated and independent yet collaborative candidate with documented experience in phylogenetic comparative methods and R package development.

The applicant must have a PhD by the time of taking up the position.

Requirements:

• PhD in ecology, evolution, bioinformatics, or related fields
• Previous research experience in phylogenetic comparative methods
• Excellent knowledge of the R programming language
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English
• Documented ability to independently conduct research and publish results scientifically
• Good teamwork ability
• Personal suitability

Desirable Qualifications:

• Experience with Bayesian statistics and model accuracy
• Experience in R package development
• Familiarity with RevBayes and probabilistic programming
• Ability to collaborate in interdisciplinary projects
• Background in agronomy or practical experience in agriculture
• Knowledge of Kenyan or South African languages

Application should include:

• A personal motivation letter describing your qualifications in relation to the listed requirements
• A CV including a publication list
• Copies of all published publications
• Contact details for two referees

The selection among applicants who meet the basic qualifications will be based on the merits above, assessed through CV, publications, and personal motivation letter. A selection of candidates will be invited for an interview, after which references may be contacted. A second interview and/or a written test may be relevant as a final selection procedure. Applicants who do not proceed in the process will only be notified via the system when the position is filled.

About Us

SLU's Department of Ecology is one of the largest centers for ecological research in the Nordic countries. We combine ecological fundamental research and applied research in conservation, wildlife management, forestry, and plant protection.

The Evolving Networks Lab is part of the unit for insect ecology.

We in the unit for insect ecology strive to understand insects better – how they interact with each other, with other organisms (including humans), and with the surrounding environment. We also study the evolutionary history of insects to better understand their future. The knowledge we gain can be used not only to conserve species and ecosystems but also to determine how we can utilize insects sustainably. We collaborate with many people both within and outside academia.

Read more about our benefits and what it is like to work at SLU at https://www.slu.se/om-slu/jobba-pa-slu/ (https://www.slu.se/om-slu/jobba-pa-slu/)

Location:

Uppsala.

Employment Type:

Permanent position. SLU may apply a probationary period.

Extent:

100%.

Start Date:

By agreement.

Application:

Welcome with your application via the application button below by 2025-05-11.

Union Contact Persons:

https://internt.slu.se/min-anstallning/facket/kontaktpersoner/ (https://internt.slu.se/min-anstallning/facket/kontaktpersoner/)

The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) plays a key role in the development of sustainable living, based on science and education. Through our focus on the interactions between humans, animals, and ecosystems and responsible use of natural resources, we contribute to sustainable societal development and good living conditions on our planet. Main locations are Alnarp, Umeå, and Uppsala, but operations are also conducted at research stations, experimental parks, and educational sites across the country.

SLU has over 3000 employees, 5000 students and doctoral students, and a turnover of over three billion SEK. The university invests in attractive environments on its campuses. We work for a gender-equal and inclusive work environment where open conversations between people with different experiences lay the foundation for scientific rigor, creativity, and development. We therefore welcome individuals with diverse backgrounds and perspectives to apply for the current position.