At the Division of Animal Welfare, University of Bern, Switzerland, we are seeking a postdoctoral scientist who is eager to investigate causes of variation in animal research. The project is funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF); its ultimate goal is to develop experimental designs for improving the external validity and reproducibility of animal research. The successful candidate will work in a small team together with faculty, another postdoc, a PhD student, and a lab technician and will participate in supervision of the PhD student and training of undergraduate students.
We will employ a multi-faceted approach comprising conceptual and quantitative statistical modelling based on existing datasets, systematic review and meta-analysis of published data, and experimental studies using laboratory mice to investigate how different sources of biological variation affect variation within and between replicate studies. Outcome variables will include behavioural, physiological, and epigenetic measures.
Candidates need a University degree and PhD (or equivalent) in biology or biomedical sciences. Since the project involves multiple approaches covering a diverse array of techniques, candidates with various backgrounds and skill sets are encouraged to apply. An understanding of sampling theory and statistics, and reasonable programming and computational skills will be essential. Knowledge in quantitative genetics and epigenetic analyses (DNA methylation and histone modification) are desirable. Experience in behavioural and physiological phenotyping of mice and in systematic reviews and meta-analyses will be beneficial.
Proficiency in German language is not required but a willingness to learn basic German will facilitate living in Bern and positively affect social life. We offer an attractive academic environment, opportunities to develop the own academic career, a 3-year contract, and a competitive salary based on the Swiss Cantonal University scheme.
Please send your application letter together with a motivation statement, your CV, publication list, copies of relevant study certificates, and contact details of one or two reference persons (reference letters are not required at this stage) in a single pdf-file to: hanno.wuerbel@vetsuisse.unibe.ch. We encourage applications of people with unusual career tracks.
The deadline for application is June 20, 2018. The intended project start is September 2018 (negotiable). Please indicate your preferred and earliest possible start date in the application letter. For informal enquiries, please contact Prof. Hanno Würbel: hanno.wuerbel@vetsuisse.unibe.ch.
