A post-doctoral position in mechanisms and/or evolution of animal coloration is available in the Shawkey lab at the University of Akron in Ohio, USA. We are examining how pigments and organization of tissue at the nanostructural scale in feathers and eggs contributes to their optical (coloration, iridescence) and non-optical (tensile strength, hydrophobicity, etc.) properties. In turn, we are examining how these properties may affect their evolution, particularly in regards to sexual selection and brood parasitism.
Specific projects will depend on the interests of the post-doc, but will likely involve use of electron and light microscopy, chemical analyses (Raman, mass spec, etc.), spectrophotometry, phylogenetic and/or optical modeling and potentially some fieldwork with brood parasitic birds. The post-doc will be expected to write and contribute to manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals and to grants for additional funding. Minimum qualifications for both positions are a Ph.D. in physical or life sciences by the time the position starts. The successful candidate will be highly motivated, interested in interdisciplinary work and able to work independently. The best metric of these characteristics is a record of peer-reviewed publication. For complete details and to apply for this position, visit: http://www.uakron.edu/jobs/. Job # 8123. Both positions are available immediately and are grant funded for a period of two years that renew annually. Salary will be commensurate with experience. For further information on our lab group, please see http://gozips.uakron.edu/~shawkey. The University of Akron is committed to a policy of equal employment opportunity and to the principles of affirmative action in accordance with state and federal laws.
