The EDP Biodiversity Chair and the CIBIO (Research Center in Biodiversity and Genetic Resources) / University of Porto (Portugal), are launching a call for a Post-Doctoral Research Fellowship to develop a research line on population ecology of semiaquatic freshwater mammals, with a special focus on the Eurasian otter (Lutra lutra) and Pyrenean desman (Galemys pyrenaicus). The project is expected to advance knowledge on the factors affecting the distribution, abundance, spatial organization and effects on riverine ecosystems of semiaquatic mammal populations of conservation concern, using ecological and genetic techniques, thus leading to the development of novel concepts and approaches for the assessment and mitigation of the impacts of hydroelectric infrastructures and other anthropogenic stressors. We place a premium on quantitative skills, intellectual creativity, hard work, independence, and a past record of publication in internationally refereed journals.
Duration and working conditions: Duration of 12 months, renewable annually for a maximum of three more years, with the earliest start time of 1st September 2013 (negotiable), in a regime of exclusivity, following the regulations for advanced training of Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia (FCT;
http://alfa.fct.mctes.pt/apoios/bolsas/normasbolsasemprojectos) and the internal regulations of ICETA/CIBIO.
Scientific area: Population Ecology
Research objectives: Due to the ever growing quest for renewable energy sources, there has been a steady increase in the development of hydroelectric infrastructures worldwide, ranging from small hydropower generation systems to huge dams. Although much research has been devoted to assess the ecological impacts of such infrastructures, there is still limited understanding on their impacts on semiaquatic mammals, particularly on the effects of habitat fragmentation on population ecology. Research will address this issue, aiming to develop novel tools for assessing and mitigation the fragmentation effects of hydroelectric infrastructures and other anthropogenic stressors on semiaquatic mammals.
Candidate profile: The candidates should have a PhD degree in mammal ecology, freshwater ecology, population ecology, or related fields, and to be open to get involved in scientific areas beyond his/her original field of expertise. We are looking for highly motivated candidates, with an excellent publication record in international scientific journals. Preference will be given to candidates with significant experience in radiotracking, GIS, data analysis and modeling, and field techniques in mammal ecology ecology. A driving license is required.
Application documents:
1. Curriculum vitae (academic courses and grades; publications, participation in research projects, non-academic interests);
2. Motivation letter (including suggestions for the work plan according to the candidate research interests);
3. Two reference letters.
Applications should be sent by email to Sara Lemos Ferreira (
bolsas.cibio@cibio.up.pt)