A fixed-term Level A grant-funded researcher position is available for two years as part of an ARC Discovery project on the evolution of brains in snakes and lizards, in the School of Biological Sciences at the University of Adelaide with Dr Jenna Crowe-Riddell and A/Prof. Kate Sanders. The project collaborators also include Prof. Shaun Collin from La Trobe University, Dr Alice Clement and Prof Mike Lee from Flinders University and A/Prof. Alison Davis Rabosky from the University of Michigan, USA.
Job ad and application details are available here.
(Level A) $78,544 – $105,611 (AUD) per annum plus an employer contribution of 17% superannuation applies.
Fixed term position for 2 years
Postdoc opportunity – Plastic brains: Neural adaptations to changing environments in reptiles
Project Summary
The aim of the project is to generate new knowledge on the evolution of squamate reptile brains as these animals adapted to new habitats and climates. The project explores how brains have evolved in three groups, dragons, goannas and venomous snakes, with a focus on Australian adaptive radiations. Complementing these macroevolutionary approaches, the project also explores dynamics of embryonic and ontogenetic brain growth to understand the evolutionary lability of reptilian brains in response to environmental and climatic change.
The project uses soft tissue micro-CT scanning (diffusible iodine contrast-enhanced micro-CT scanning) of herpetological specimens from museum collections to generate high-resolution models of brain morphology. This will be complemented by quantitative analyses to determine neuronal packing in squamate brains (e.g. histology, isotropic fractionation and flow cytometry).
The project has access to state-of-the-art microscopy services through Adelaide Microscopy at the University and the Bioimaging Platform at La Trobe University. The project also has access to high-powered workstations and microCT scanning facilities based at the University of Adelaide, Flinders University and the University of Michigan.
To be successful you will need:
- A PhD in the discipline of evolutionary biology, morphology/cell analysis, comparative neurobiology, and/or equivalent qualifications or research experience in related areas.
- Track record of publication of research in high quality, peer-reviewed journals relative to opportunity and evidence of being involved in professional activities related to research.
- Effective organisational skills including the ability to prioritise and manage workload within a busy environment to meet competing deadlines.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and productively with staff.