Molecular/Ecological: Postdoctoral Fellowship

Applications are invited for a postdoctoral fellow to join the Molecular Ecology research group at the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) in collaboration with the National Biodiversity Assessment. The research will focus on integrating various genetic indicators and mapping to identify areas of phylogenetic distinctiveness and populations at greatest risk of genetic erosion across South Africa, with a particular focus on amphibians.

This work will field directly into national biodiversity reporting, such as the National Biodiversity Assessment and the Convention on Biological Diversity.

Requirements 

The candidate must have submitted a PhD for examination at the time of taking up the position or should have graduated with a PhD in the last five years (in a field of Biological Sciences), and have research experience in phylogenetics and population genomics, with an additional emphasis on species distribution modeling and GIS.

Excellent DNA laboratory and analytical skills are a prerequisite, as are demonstrated hypothesis based scientific thinking, and the ability to integrate molecular phylogenetics/population genetics with landscape level data. Experience in bioinformatics and an existing track record in publishing in international peer-reviewed journals would be beneficial.

The project will focus on:

1. population genetics, phylogenetics and landscape analyses;
2. testing genetic diversity indicators for use in national and international reporting processes;
3. monitoring the genetic diversity of amphibian populations

Responsibilities:

• Implement a research project to enhance the content of the National Biodiversity Assessment through collaboration, and publish findings in internationally peer reviewed journals.

Bursary value

The value of the fellowship is R300,000/year and is available for 12 months with an early 2023 starting date. Some running expenses will also be made available for each year. The postdoctoral fellow may propose a South African University of their choice or work with SANBI to find a host university.

Application procedure

Applications must include a standard bursary application cover sheet; a full CV; certified copies of ID and academic records; two letters of reference (one must be from an academic supervisor); examples of published work and a motivation letter describing the applicant’s suitability for the position in terms of skills and experience, highlights of achievements to date, research interests, and future goals (approximately two-pages).

Send all application documents to students@sanbi.org.za and students.sanbi@gmail.com with “Genetic Indicators Postdoc” in the subject line.

SANBI reserves the right not to fill this fellowship. If no response has been received within 21 days of the closing date, candidates may assume that their applications were unsuccessful.

Academic enquiries:
Prof Krystal Tolley
E-mail: k.tolley@sanbi.org.za

Dr Jessica da Silva
E-mail : j.dasilva@sanbi.org.za

General queries:
Ms René du Toit
E-mail: r.dutoit@sanbi.org.za