Postdoctoral Fellow in Insect Evolutionary Ecology

The Department of Zoology at Stockholm University has ca. 80 employees, including researchers, doctoral students and administrative staff. Research and education at the department take place in an international environment. Outstanding and highly impactful research is conducted in a wide range of fields, including evolutionary biology, ecology, molecular and population genetics, genomics, conservation and behaviour.
More information about us, please visit: the Department of Zoology.

Project description

The postdoc will contribute to a project examining the role of heat stress on butterfly infertility to answer fundamental questions about the impact of climate change on insect populations. Specific goals are to: 1) examine thermal fertility limits in a comparative phylogenetic context, 2) establish the ecological relevance of these limits by surveying natural populations, 3) quantify adaptive potential of these limits by testing for local adaptation on continental scales and 4) using these data to evaluate the extent that thermal fertility limits and local adaptation improve forecast accuracy of butterfly responses to climate change.

Main responsibilities

The position involves research in evolutionary ecology, including collection and maintenance of 12 different butterfly species, assessment of effects of heat stress on male fertility and butterfly behaviour, organization of and leading on collection trips across Europe, and an ability to learn species distribution modelling approaches and then apply these to our data. The postdoc will work closely with a research technician to accomplish the goals of the research.

Qualification requirements

Postdoctoral positions are appointed primarily for purposes of research. Applicants are expected to hold a Swedish doctoral degree or an equivalent degree from another country.

Assessment criteria

The degree must have been completed at latest before the employment decision is made, but no more than three years before the closing date. An older degree may be acceptable under special circumstances. Special reasons refer to sick leave, parental leave, elected positions in trade unions, service in the total defense, or other similar circumstances as well as clinical attachment or service/assignments relevant to the subject area.

When appointing, special emphasis will be placed on scientific expertise and skills, specifically candidates with a strong interest in evolutionary ecology related to the topic, and with experience in butterfly research and/or thermal effects on sterility in insects. Demonstrable interest or competence in statistics and programmed (e.g. R, Python) is a plus. Applicants should be able to think quantitatively, be well-organized, good communicators, and be happy to work in a team as well as independently. The working language of the group is English.

About the employment

The position involves full-time employment for a minimum of two years and a maximum of three years, with the possibility of extension under special circumstances. Start date August 2025 or as per agreement.

We offer

Training will be provided in evolutionary ecology, statistics, species distribution modelling, climate data handling, and butterfly handling.

With us, you will experience the dynamic interaction between higher education and research that makes Stockholm University an exciting and creative environment. You will work in an international environment and get favourable conditions. The university is located in the National City Park with good transport links to the city.

Stockholm University strives to be a workplace free from discrimination and with equal opportunities for all.

Contact

Further information about the position can be obtained from Professor Rhonda Snook, rhonda.snook@zoologi.su.se.

Application

Apply for the position at Stockholm University's recruitment system. Attach a personal letter and CV as well as the attachments requested in the application form. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that the application is complete in accordance with the instructions in the job advertisement, and that it is submitted before the deadline.

The instructions for applicants are available at: How to apply for a position.