Analiza datos de comportamiento migratorio en el Swiss Ornithological Institute

Scientific assistant in avian migration


The department of Bird migration investigates migration behaviour at the individual, group and population levels. In one of our main research lines, we investigate routes and times, stopover sites and non-breeding areas of migrating landbirds to identify the key factors underlying variation in migration patterns and to model the consequences of these migration strategies for future changes in the distribution of suitable habitats. We are looking for a


Scientific assistant in bird migration ecology (80 - 100%)



Over the past years, we have tracked a considerable number of birds from various species with miniaturized multi-sensor data loggers. We have accumulated a large set of tracking and auxiliary data from various, mainly trans-Saharan migrants. We aim at analysing the recorded temporal patterns of light, magnetism, pressure and accelerometer data to reveal details of individual migratory behaviours and strategies.



Requirements

We seek a candidate with a PhD or a MSc degree in movement analysis or behavioural ecology with profound background in statistics, and preferably experience in spatio-temporal data analysis. Profound knowledge of the statistical environment and programming language R is a prerequisite. Working language is English but knowledge of German and/or French will be helpful in everyday life.



What we offer

The position is tightly embedded in ongoing research projects within the department, particularly in the analysis of light-based tracking data. It is offered initially for 2 years, with the possibility of a one-year extension. Salary is according to the regulations of the Swiss Ornithological Institute. Starting date is 1 March 2021 or by agreement. Working place is Sempach, Switzerland.



Application and contact

Applications should be submitted as a single PDF file to migration@vogelwarte.ch. Please include a letter of motivation detailing scientific interests and experience, a current CV, and contact information of two academic referees. Closing date for applications is 20 January 2021. Interviews will tentatively be held in February. The Swiss Ornithological Institute strives to increase the proportion of women in its workforce and we particularly encourage qualified females scientists to apply. For more information please contact Felix Liechti (felix.liechti@vogelwarte.ch) or Steffen Hahn (steffen.hahn@vogelwarte.ch).