Research Associate (Ecological Entomology)

Job title:

Research Associate (Ecological Entomology)

Company

Cardiff University

Job description

School / DirectorateCardiff School of BiosciencesAdvertResearch Associate in Ecological EntomologyWe are looking for a postdoctoral research associate to join the in the School of Biosciences. The role is part of a programme that has been fully funded for three years. The position is available for one year initially, with the potential for further extensions in years 2 and 3 following annual reports.The candidate will work with Dr Bishop and Dr Charlene Janion-Scheepers (University of Cape Town) within a wider HSFP (Human Frontier Science Program) funded project on microclimate mapping to understand species coexistence in the Cederberg Wilderness Area of South Africa. The research will collect data on physiological and behavioural traits, including field and laboratory measurements, of ~40 ant species to uncover patterns and mechanisms of how microclimate variation drives species coexistence. The postdoctoral researcher will play a leading role in this research, working closely with other project PIs based at Durham University (Dr Rebecca Senior) and Harvard University (Prof Andrew Davies). The successful candidate will be expected to spend extensive time at the field sites and will have opportunities to visit partner institutions and attend international conferences. This position will focus on quantifying the foraging schedules, activity patterns, and behavioural repertories of the diverse Cederberg ant fauna.Candidates must have a PhD in ecology or entomology, or a related field by the time of appointment. The ideal candidate will also have demonstrated experience in ant ecology and taxonomy, fluency in R, while experience in ecophysiological techniques will be an advantage. A strong track record of scientific publications and conference presentations in related disciplines is needed. Finally, the candidate must be able to collaborate closely with other postdoctoral researchers at Harvard and Cardiff Universities, as well as with research assistants at UCT.We can offer you the chance to work in a vibrant organisation, with and opportunities for progression. We are a proud Living Wage supporter.This position is full time (35 hours per week) and fixed term until 31/10/2025. The role is based in the Cardiff School of Biosciences in the Sir Martin Evans building.Salary: £39,347 – £44,263 per annum (Grade 6). Appointments to roles at Cardiff University are usually made at bottom of scale unless in exceptional circumstances.Please contact Dr Tom Rhys Bishop ( ) for an informal, confidential discussion about the role.Date advert posted: Wednesday, 9 October 2024Closing date: Sunday, 27 October 2024Please be aware that Cardiff University reserves the right to close this vacancy early should sufficient applications be received.Cardiff University is committed to supporting and promoting equality and diversity and to creating an inclusive working environment. We believe this can be achieved through attracting, developing, and retaining a diverse range of staff from many different backgrounds. We therefore welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of sex, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, trans identity, relationship status, religion or belief, caring responsibilities, or age. In supporting our employees to achieve a balance between their work and their personal lives, we will also consider proposals for flexible working or job share arrangements.Applications may be submitted in Welsh, and an application submitted in Welsh will not be treated less favourably than an application submitted in English.Cardiff University is a signatory to the San Francisco Declaration on Research Assessment (DORA), which means that in hiring and promotion decisions we will evaluate applicants on the quality of their research, not publication metrics or the identity of the journal in which the research is published. More information is available at:Post Reference Number19135BRJob DescriptionMain functionTo conduct research within the Bishop Traits Lab and contribute to the overall research performance of the School and University, carrying out research leading to the publishing of high-quality research. To pursue excellence in research and to inspire others to do the same.Main Duties

• To conduct research within ant ecology on the funded HFSP project and contribute to the overall research performance of the School and University by the production of measurable outputs including publishing in national academic journals and conferences.
• To undertake field work multiple times a year in the Cederberg Wilderness area of South Africa.
• To undertake administrative tasks associated with the research project, including the planning and organisation of the project and the implementation of procedures required to ensure accurate and timely reporting.
• To prepare research ethics and research governance applications as appropriate.
• To review and synthesise existing research literature within the field.
• To engage effectively with project partners at the University of Cape Town, Harvard university, and Durham University.

General Duties

• To participate in School research activities.
• To build and create networks both internally and externally to the university, to influence decisions, explore future research requirements, and share research ideas for the benefit of research projects.
• To undergo personal and professional development that is appropriate to and which will enhance performance.

Salary Range Max.44,263GradeGrade 6Salary Range Min.39,347Job CategoryAcademic – ResearchCareer PathwayResearchPerson SpecificationIMPORTANT: EVIDENCING CRITERIAThe University uses the person specification as a key tool for shortlisting. Candidates should evidence that they meet ALL of the essential criteria as well as, where relevant, the desirable. As part of the application process, you will be asked to provide this evidence via a supporting statement.
Please save your supporting statement in a separate document with the title [YOURNAME-BR NUMBER-JOB TITLE] and attach it to your application in the recruitment system.Essential CriteriaQualifications and Education * Hold (or nearing completion) a PhD in ecology, entomology, biological science, environmental science or equivalent.
Knowledge, Skills and Experience * An established expertise and proven portfolio of research experience within ecology and entomology

• Knowledge of current status of research within ecology and entomology.
• Proven ability to publish in national or international journals.
• Ability to conduct fieldwork in remote locations for long periods of time.

Communication and Team Working * Proven ability in effective and persuasive communication.

• Ability to supervise the work of others to focus team efforts and motivate individuals.

Other * Proven ability to demonstrate creativity, innovation and team-working within work.

• Proven ability to work without close supervision

Desirable Criteria * Knowledge and experience of ant ecology.

• A UK or international driving license.
• Experience in insect physiology or behavioural ecology.

Expected salary

£39347 – 44263 per year

Location

United Kingdom

Job date

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 02:21:36 GMT

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