Postdoctoral Researcher at the Department of Zoology

The Department of Zoology is one of the oldest departments at Stockholm University and has a long history of fundamental and applied animal research, from invertebrates to large mammals.

The department constitutes a dynamic research environment and consists of approximately 80 employees, including professors, researchers, PhD students, and administrative staff. There are several research groups working on fish ecology, evolution and behavior, as well as population genetics and evolutionary genomics. More information about us can be found at: Department of Zoology (https://www.su.se/enheter/zoologiska-institutionen).

Project Description

The Department of Zoology at Stockholm University is recruiting a postdoctoral researcher for the project “Dynamic interactions between host social behaviour and parasite virulence”. The project is funded through a Wallenberg Academy Fellowship awarded to Jessica Stephenson.

The position is part of a larger research project aimed at providing integrated theoretical and empirical tests of the dynamic interactions between host social behavior, parasite transmission, and virulence evolution. The postdoc will use existing data on directly transmitted gyrodactylid parasites, guppies, and sites in northern Trinidad to test how river structure, host community composition, parasite host range, and host social behavior interact and shape the structure and evolutionary potential of parasite populations. Other existing datasets may allow for additional studies, such as those of the fish or environmental microbiome, as well as how population genomic structure affects the virulence phenotype of the parasite.

The postdoc will work closely with Mary Janecka at the Carnegie Museum of Natural History and with research groups at the Department of Zoology with strong expertise in population genetics and evolutionary genomics.

Responsibilities

Postdoctoral positions are primarily research-focused. The postdoc will work on the analysis of existing SNP data (single nucleotide polymorphisms) from two parasite species from multiple sites in Trinidad. Research questions that these data can be used to address include:

• How does the parasite's host range (generalist vs. specialist) affect how parasite populations are structured across different host communities?
• How does the complexity of river networks affect the structure of parasite populations?
• How does host behavior influence the structure of parasite populations?

In addition to these core questions, there are several additional research directions that the postdoc can develop depending on interest and expertise.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for a postdoctoral position, a PhD degree or a foreign degree deemed equivalent to a relevant PhD is required. The degree must be obtained by the time the employment decision is made.

Assessment Criteria

It is advantageous if the PhD or equivalent has been obtained no more than three years before the application deadline. If there are special reasons, an earlier obtained degree may also be considered advantageous. Special reasons include leave due to illness, parental leave, trust assignments within trade unions, service in the total defense, or other similar circumstances, as well as clinical service or relevant service/assignments for the subject area.

In the selection process, particular emphasis will be placed on scientific competence. Ideal candidates have experience working with challenging genomic data, such as data from parasites, other very small organisms, or fecal samples. Experience using such data to understand population dynamics, species interactions, and/or complex reproductive strategies (e.g., clonal reproduction) is highly meritorious. We are also looking for a person with the ability to synthesize ideas and data across different fields, including landscape and river landscape genomics, as well as a strong publication record demonstrating these skills. Excellent written and oral communication skills are a requirement.

About the Position

The position is full-time and is permanent, but for at least two years and a maximum of three years, with the possibility of extension if there are special reasons. Start date in spring/summer 2026 or by agreement.

We Offer

With us, you will experience the dynamics of the interplay between higher education and research that makes Stockholm University an exciting and creative environment. You will work in an international setting and receive favorable conditions. The university is located in the National City Park with good connections to the city.

Stockholm University is committed to being a workplace free from discrimination and providing equal rights and opportunities for all.

Contact

Inquiries about the position can be made to Jessica Stephenson, [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]).

Application

You apply for the position via Stockholm University's recruitment system. Attach a personal letter and CV as well as the requested documents in the application form. As an applicant, you are responsible for ensuring that the application is complete and that it reaches the university by the application deadline.

Instructions for applicants can be found on the website: Instructions for applicants (https://www.su.se/om-universitetet/jobba-p%C3%A5-su/att-s%C3%B6ka-en-anst%C3%A4llning).

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