Postdoc in epigenetics of avian breeding time (Finland)

The Department of Biosciences, University of Helsinki invites applications for a TWO-YEAR POST DOCTORAL RESEARCHER POSITION in the research group of Assistant Professor Arild Husby.

The successful applicant will be part of the Centre of Excellence in Metapopulation Research at the Department of Biosciences, University of Helsinki (http://bit.ly/1TXQfvn). The main goal of the post doc project is to examine the epigenetic basis of avian timing of breeding using the great tit (Parus major) as a model species. The successful candidate will examine DNA methylation patterns using targeted bisulphite sequencing of previously identified candidate genes. DNA methylation levels will be compared among two groups of extreme phenotypes using blood samples already collected. In addition, the candidate will be involved in some field work to collect additional data to examine trans-generational DNA methylation patterns. The work will be performed in close collaboration with Prof. Marcel Visser and Dr Kees van Oers at the Netherlands Institute of Ecology (http://bit.ly/1Lm1s9Q). Fieldwork will be carried out in the Hoge Veluwe national park near Wageningen, The Netherlands and close to Viikki campus, Helsinki, Finland.

The successful candidate should have PhD / postdoctoral experience within the fields of evolutionary genetics/genomics with previous experience in sequence based analysis of DNA methylation data. Previous experience working on birds is not necessary. Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English are required and you must also demonstrate ability to work as part of a team. The position will have a probationary period of four months. The starting date is flexible but at latest 1st January 2016. The salary will be based on level 5 of the demands level chart for teaching and research personnel in the salary system of Finnish universities. In addition, the appointee will be paid a salary component based on personal work performance. The total minimum salary at the beginning of the employment is 3311,17 €/month. To apply, please send, in a single pdf file, your CV with publications included and a letter (max 2 pages) with a description of your research interests and, in particular, why you would be a suitable candidate for the project. The application letter should also contain possible starting dates and contact details of three references. The applicatiions are to be addressed to Dr Arild Husby and submitted to biotiede-mrg@helsinki.fi by 1st October 2015 at 15.45 local Helsinki time. For more information about this position, please contact Dr Arild Husby (arild.husby@helsinki.fi), see also our lab website: http://bit.ly/1yT0ny7