2 open PhD positions to study the neural mechanisms of alarm calling
behavior in birds
Alarm calling is considered an evolutionary paradox. Although alarm
calls can increase the survival rate of the calls' recipients, alarm
calls can also harm the sender by revealing the sender's position to the
predator. While the function, ecology and evolution of alarm calling
behavior is well-studied, we know comparatively little about how the
brain controls alarm call production, processes alarm calls and enables
animals to generate an appropriate reaction to alarm calls.
We are seeking two outstanding, highly motivated and talented PhD
candidates to work on an international and multidisciplinary research
project that was recently funded by the European Research Council. The
aim of this novel and exciting project is to understand how the avian
brain controls the production of alarm calls, processes alarm calls
emitted by conspecifics and generates an adequate response to these
important anti-predator signals. Cutting-edge, wireless recording
techniques will be used to simultaneously monitor the vocal behavior
and the brain activity at the cellular level in groups of wild birds
that encounter threats within their natural habitat (see Hoffmann
et al. 2019 Nat Commun 10(1):2577 for reference). The PhD work will
include in-vivo neurophysiology, behavioral observation, neuroanatomy,
analysis of behavioral (audio & video) and neuronal data sets, as well
as the dissemination of the research results. The positions will be based
in Seewiesen (Southern Bavaria, Germany), but all experimental work will
be done during extended periods of field work will in South Africa and
in Australia. Therefore, we are looking for candidates with experience
in avian field research (incl. capturing, banding and observing birds).
Who we are: The project team consists of three outstanding scientist
affiliated with the Max Planck Institute for Biological Intelligence
in Germany (Dr. Susanne Hoffmann, primary PhD supervisor), with the
University of Pretoria in South Africa (Dr. Cornelia Voigt) and with
the Deakin University in Australia (Prof. Kate Buchanan).
Who you are: The position would suit a student with strong interests in
animal behavior and neuroscience. Essential requirements include MSc
degree in Biology, Neuroscience, Cognition, Ecology and/or Evolution
(or equivalent); high proficiency in the use of the English language;
excellent written communication skills; high levels of enthusiasm
and motivation and an ability to work independently and as part
of an international team. After training, you need to be able to
perform invasive animal experiments, and to collect and analyze brain
tissue. Willingness to travel internationally for extended time periods
and to work in field based settings is an absolute must. Experience in
field work with birds and/or in bioacoustics and/or in neurophysiology
are desirable.
What we offer:
- full time position as PhD student fully funded for 4 years in a
stimulating and supportive international research environment with
English as the main language
- attractive remuneration based on the collective agreement for the
public service of the federal states of Germany (E 13 TV L, 65%)
- excellent training in academic, technical and career skills via the
International Max Planck Research School Biological Intelligence
(https://imprs-bi.mpg.de/)
- possibility to participate in international conferences
- access to state of the art tools and exceptional research
infrastructure
How to apply:
Motivated candidates are asked to send their applications directly
to Dr. Susanne Hoffmann (Susanne.hoffmann@bi.mpg.de). Applications
(in English) should contain a cover/motivation letter stating career
goals, professional experience, and how these relate to the advertised
position; a CV including a detailed description of study trajectory,
grades and positioning and contact information of at least 2 referees.
Application deadline: 15th September 2024
