Doctoral student in biology with a focus on tropical forest ecologyReference number PAR 2024/869The University of Gothenburg tackles society's challenges with diverse knowledge. 56,000 students and 6,600 employees make the university a large and inspiring place to work and study.Doctoral position in biology with a focus on tropical forest ecologyAt the Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences (BioEnv), we study different levels of biological organisation from genes to ecosystems. Our teaching and research activities span various environments, including forests and marine ecosystems.This PhD project focuses on the spatial and temporal variation of tree communities in the Atlantic rainforests of eastern South America, a biodiversity hotspot. The key questions addressed by the project include:What are the spatial patterns in forest community structure?What are the main environmental factors driving these patterns?How do species-specific responses to environmental factors affect forest functioning and diversity?The doctoral student will coordinate the establishment of permanent forest plots and collect ancillary data, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of how tropical forests respond to global changes. Field campaigns may lead to the discovery of new species.The project is primarily based on ongoing research efforts by the Atlantic Forest Research and Conservation Alliance at Alto da Figueira Reserve in Brazil. The student will be hosted at the Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences under the supervision of Dr. Daniel Zuleta and Prof. Alexandre Antonelli.The main task is to conduct PhD thesis work under supervision, developing methodological experience and analytical skills. Techniques may include tree hydraulic methods and remote sensing. Doctoral studies comprise four years of full-time study.As part of your employment, you may have departmental duties corresponding to up to 20% of full-time employment, which usually consist of teaching and may include research and administration.The general eligibility requirements for doctoral studies are:Having completed a degree at second-cycle level, orFulfilment of course requirements totalling at least 240 credits, with at least 60 credits at second-cycle level.To meet the specific entry requirements, applicants must:Have a second-cycle degree in a relevant subject area in the natural sciences, orHave completed studies for at least 60 higher education credits at a second-cycle level in relevant subject areas.Assessment criteriaThe selection will be based on the ability to assimilate the doctoral studies. It is a requirement that applicants have:Knowledge of plant biology in fields such as ecology or phylogenetics.Analytical skills in producing or handling biological data.Ability to work individually and as part of a group.Willingness to conduct field work in Brazil.Excellent communication skills in English.A MSc or BSc in a topic relevant to this project.Knowledge in forest ecology.Experience conducting field work under challenging conditions.Experience with quantitative data analysis and/or programming.Experience working in a team.Experience in remote sensing methods/data collection.Experience with scientific publication(s).Experience coordinating field crews.Language skills in Portuguese or Spanish, or ability to learn quickly.The application should preferably be written in English and must include:A short cover letter justifying the application.An attested list of qualifications (CV).Examination certificates and a transcript of courses with grades.A copy of the Master thesis (or equivalent).The top-ranked candidates will be selected for an interview, which will be held in English.EmploymentOnce admitted to doctoral studies, you will be employed as a doctoral student at the University of Gothenburg. Initial employment may apply for a maximum of one year, renewable by a maximum of two years at a time.Placed at the Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences. Extent: 100%. First day of employment: February 1st, 2025 or upon agreement.Applications must be received by: October 31st, 2024.Information for International ApplicantsThe University works actively to achieve a working environment with equal conditions and values the qualities that diversity brings to its operations.
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