Research Vacancies
MSc by Research Position in Zoology
Job Posted: 03 Mar 2023
Closing Date for Applications: 24 Mar 2023
Department: Zoology
School: School of Biological, Earth & Environmental Sciences & the Environmental Research Institute
Contract Type: Fixed Term Whole-Time
Job Type: Research
Salary: see advert for stipend details
Fully funded one-year MSc project in Zoology
Applications are invited for a one-year MSc by Research project funded under the BioDivERsa + project and based in the School of Biological, Earth & Environmental Sciences (BEES).
The eWHALE Project
The MSc research forms part of a wider project entitled “Combining environmental DNA sampling, whale watching & citizen science for stakeholder-driven marine biodiversity protection - NE Atlantic & Mediterranean”. The overall eWHALE project seeks to use environmental DNA (eDNA) from water samples to help in area-based conservation. This is a developing area that is moving away from presence/absence of a species to examining in more detail genetic diversity, but due to relatively small sample sizes has yet to determine population structure. To overcome this, in collaboration with industry, particularly whale watching companies, it is anticipated that over a number of spatial and temporal scales, we will be able to provide broader taxonomic resolution data for marine megafauna and associated prey. These efforts will generate an improved knowledge base for safeguarding marine megafauna and its genetic diversity.
The MSc Project
The MSc will focus on examining the feasibility of monitoring bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in the outer Shannon estuary SAC using eDNA. The student will interact with other team members in conducting this research which will involve fieldwork, including on board a dolphin watching vessel, laboratory work and data analysis.
Funding
The MSc by Research position is funded for one year through the 2021-2022 BioDivERsa+ call for research proposals, with contributions from the national funders Irish National Parks & Wildlife Service and EPA. It includes a tax-free stipend of €18,500 p.a. and tuition fees covered at the EU rate.
Start date
May 2023 or as soon as possible thereafter.
Eligibility criteria
Essential attributes:A 1.1 or 2.1 BSc honours degree (or equivalent) in zoology, ecology, marine biology, conservation, genetics or a related subject.
Experience in molecular laboratory analysis.
Must be comfortable in fieldwork conditions including the use of small boats.
A good understanding of and strong interest in molecular approaches to monitoring marine populations and their prey.
A strong understanding of experimental design, data analysis and statistics, preferably using R packages.
Willingness to work independently and as part of a team.
Full, clean driving licence.
Desirable attributes:Experience of conducting field work, small boat handling and sea survival certificate.
Experience in photo-identification techniques.
Evidence of having completed a research project.
Willingness to engage with the general public or stakeholders as part of outreach activities.
Please contact Professor Emer Rogan (E.Rogan@ucc.ie) if you have any questions about the position.
To Apply:
Please send your application to Professor Emer Rogan (E.Rogan@ucc.ie) with “eWHALE MSc application” in the subject line of the email.
Please attach a single PDF document that contains:A cover letter of 1 to 2 pages: Your letter should clearly set out your suitability and motivation for this MSc with reference to your past relevant experience and achievements.
A CV that includes your relevant experience, undergraduate results, any relevant publications (if applicable) and contact information for two academic referees.
Candidates will be shortlisted and interviewed via MS Teams within four weeks of the closing date, with the successful candidate informed shortly after interview.
The closing date for applications is 24th March 2023.
