Graduate assistant in Theoretical Evolutionary Ecology

Introduction

UNIL is a leading international teaching and research institution, with over 5,000 employees and 17,000 students split between its Dorigny campus, CHUV and Epalinges. As an employer, UNIL encourages excellence, individual recognition and responsibility.

Presentation

The Group of Prof. Charles Mullon is proposing a Graduate assistant (assistant diplômé) position in Theoretical Evolutionary Ecology at the Department of Ecology and Evolution, University of Lausanne, Switzerland. The graduate assistant will join a dynamic team working mainly on developing and analyzing mathematical models to understand the evolutionary dynamics of traits that mediate interactions among individuals and with the environment. Interests include, but are not limited to, the evolution of sexual traits, genetic architecture, ecological interactions, niche construction, and social behaviour. 

For more information, see https://lab-mullon.github.io/

Job information

Expected start date in position : 01.12.2024 or to be agreed

Contract length : The initial contract is for 1 year, renewable twice for two years, up to a maximum of 5 years in total

Activity rate : 85%

Workplace : Lausanne-Dorigny

Annual gross salary at 85% : CHF 57'090.-

Your responsibilities

The successful candidate will be based at the Department of Ecology and Evolution of the University of Lausanne, under the supervision of Prof. Charles Mullon. The research project will be defined together with the group leader based on the candidate’s interests and competences in the field of theoretical evolutionary ecology. Understanding of and confidence with mathematical modelling and evolutionary concepts are highly desirable.

Graduate assistants (assistants-diplômés) in our department assist in teaching and supervise master students (up to 30% of the activity). At least 55% of the working time is devoted to personal thesis research. 

Your qualifications

In order to complete our team, we are looking for someone with the following skills:

Essential

• Master’s degree in a relevant area (e.g., biology, mathematics, physics, computer science)


• Scientific research motivation and experience in evolutionary biology


• Excellent spoken and written English proficiency

Desirable

• Confidence in evolutionary biology (e.g., population and quantitative genetics, sexual selection, social evolution, evolutionary game theory)


• Experience with mathematical modelling (e.g., dynamical systems, applied probability)


• Programming skills (e.g., in Python, Java, R or C)

The working language in the group and in the department is English for all scientific matters but knowledge in French would be a plus even if not mandatory.

Interpersonal skills

• Good cooperative skills with other researchers and team members


• Good communication skills, ability to keep an open-mind, ability to communicate your ideas to others


• Be motivated and be able to motivate others

What the position offers you

We offer an outstanding working place in a multicultural, diverse and dynamic academic environment. Opportunities for professional training, a lot of activities and other benefits to discover. The Department of Ecology and Evolution in Lausanne University hosts research groups working on a broad range of topics, producing a rich intellectual and social life. Although French is the common language in Lausanne region, the department research activities and seminars are conducted in English. The campus is located on the shore of the Geneva Lake, with the view on the Alps.

Contact for further information

For further information please contact Prof. Charles Mullon : E-Mail schreiben

Your application

Deadline : 05.07.2024

Formal applications should include:

• A cover letter containing a short description of your research interests and research experience, explaining why you reply to this job offer


•  Your CV


•  A copy of your master certificate (if available)


• Master’s thesis summary (~one paragraph; max. one page)


• The contact details of 2-3 referees

Please, send your full application in Word or PDF.
Only applications through this website will be taken into account.

Review of applications will begin immediately.

We thank you for your understanding.

Additional information

UNIL is committed to equal opportunities and diversity.
www.unil.ch/egalite

UNIL supports early career researchers.
www.unil.ch/graduatecampus