Job title:
3-year Postdoctoral Researcher in Multimodal Communication in Wild Chimpanzees
Location:
EthoS Lab, University of Rennes, France, with fieldwork in Kibale National Park, Uganda
Duration:
3 years (full-time)
Salary:
2k€/month, subject to variation depending on previous experience
Start Date:
01/09/2025
Application Deadline:
01/06/2025
About the Position
The EthoS research group at the University of Rennes is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to join the APELANG project, an ANR-funded study investigating multimodal combinatorial communication in wild chimpanzees. This project aims to uncover how chimpanzees combine vocal, gestural, and facial signals, with a particular focus on the ontogeny and cultural transmission of such communication systems.
The successful candidate will play a central role in data collection, analysis, and publication of research findings. The position includes at least two fieldwork seasons of four months each in Uganda’s Kibale National Park, working with the Ngogo and Kanyawara chimpanzee communities. The remainder of the position will be based at the University of Rennes, where the postdoc will lead video coding, data analysis and writing papers, in collaboration with project partners.
Key Responsibilities
• Conduct field research on wild chimpanzees, including behavioural observations and video/audio data collection.
• Code and analyse multimodal communicative behaviours using specialised software (e.g., Noldus Observer XT, R).
• Lead and contribute to the writing and submission of scientific publications.
• Collaborate with an international, interdisciplinary team.
• Supervise and mentor MSc students and research assistants.
• Contribute to science communication and dissemination efforts.
Qualifications & Experience
Essential:
• PhD in Primatology, Ethology, Animal Communication, Cognitive Science, or a related field.
• Experience conducting behavioural research, preferably with primates or other social animals.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis (e.g., R)
• Proficiency in video coding (e.g., Elan, The Observer, Boris).
• Strong track record of scientific publications.
• Fluency in English (spoken and written); knowledge of French is not required, but a willingness to learn will be beneficial.
• Ability to work independently in remote field settings under challenging conditions.
• Commitment to ethical research practices and inclusivity in science.
Desirable:
• Field experience with great apes, ideally chimpanzees.
• Experience with multimodal communication research.
• Familiarity with network analysis or computational linguistic methods.
• Interest in language evolution and comparative cognition.
Team Involved
The postdoctoral researcher will work closely with an international and interdisciplinary team, including:
• Dr. Maël Leroux (PI, Associate Professor at EthoS, University of Rennes)
• Prof. Alban Lemasson (Professor at EthoS, University of Rennes)
• Prof. Katie Slocombe (Professor at the University of York)
• Prof. Simon Townsend (Professor at the University of Zurich)
Work Environment & Inclusivity
The University of Rennes and the EthoS research group are committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and supportive research environment. We strongly encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds, including those historically underrepresented in academia.
Given the specific challenges of conducting research in the field, we are dedicated to ensuring a safe and supportive environment for all researchers. We provide guidance and resources to help navigate logistical, cultural, and personal considerations, including tailored support for researchers who may face additional challenges due to their identity. We encourage open communication to address individual needs and will work proactively to ensure all team members feel secure and valued throughout their time in the project.
How to apply:
Applicants should submit the following materials:
• Cover letter detailing research interests, experience, and fit for the position.
• CV including a list of publications.
• Contact information for two references.
Deadline: 01/06/2025
To apply, please send your application as a single PDF to:
📧 maelmaodez.leroux@gmail.com
For informal inquiries, contact Dr. Maël Leroux at the same address.
