of Biological and Environmental Science, Finland
EVOLUTIONARY ECOLOGY OF PARASITE CO-INFECTIONS
We are looking for candidates to fill a postdoctoral position in a
project exploring responses of parasites and their hosts to multiple
parasite species and genotype infections. The position is funded by the
Academy of Finland.
Wild hosts are typically infected with a range of parasite species
and genotypes of one species at the same time. This has significant
implications for parasite-parasite interactions (one factor underlying
parasite virulence) and for host's ability to defend itself against
infections. These associations may also be subjected to considerable
variation depending on the stage of a parasite life cycle. This is
particularly true for parasites with complex life cycles that include
several consecutive hosts with different conditions for co-infections in
each. However, very little is currently known about these interactions
in natural host-parasite systems. Currently, we focus on
· the role of antagonistic and facilitative parasite interactions in
shaping co-infection dynamics
· the role of host responses in determining the outcome of multiple
infections
· the influence of spatiotemporal dynamics of host-parasite
interactions on patterns of parasite community assembly
Considerable latitude in specific research questions will be given
according to personal interests of the candidate.
As a study system we use mainly trematodes with complex life cycles
including multiple consecutive host species.
A successful candidate will have a PhD in evolutionary biology, ecology,
parasitology, or related field. We are seeking for a highly motivated
person with problem solving skills, experience of experimental work, and
a record of successful publications.
We offer stimulating working environment in an international Department
recognized research groups and the Centre of excellence in Biological
interactions
funded by the Academy of Finland.
· Application deadline: 20 December 2013
· Starting date: immediately but negotiable
· Duration of the position: 2 years with a possible extension
· Salary: 3000-3500 Euros per month depending on the qualifications of
the candidate. Health insurance and other benefits are included.
Send a brief letter of motivation, CV, list of publications, and contact
details of two references as a single PDF to Dr.Anssi Karvonen
(anssi.t.karvonen@jyu.fi). For more information visit
http://users.jyu.fi/~anskarv/
Dr. Anssi Karvonen
anssi.t.karvonen@jyu.fi
