Postdoctoral position in evolutionary ecology

The Norwegian Institute for Nature Research (NINA) in Trondheim seeks a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to join the DEEP-Pop project for 2 years (up to 3 years with a research stay abroad, in France and/or Ireland). This interdisciplinary project aims to unravel the complex interactions between evolutionary and ecological processes shaping population dynamics, by focusing on Atlantic salmon populations in Norway and across Europe.

Project overview
The DEEP-Pop project, funded by the Research Council of Norway, aims to understand how environmental changes and human activities impact wild Atlantic salmon populations by integrating ecological, evolutionary, and genomic approaches. Through long-term monitoring and cutting-edge genomic analyses, the project seeks to uncover the genetic basis of adaptation, identify environmental drivers of population dynamics, and assess the roles of ecological and evolutionary factors in population growth. Candidates can contribute to various work packages, including modelling population dynamics and investigating adaptation using spatial and temporal genomics data. Our research has shown salmon ability to adapt quickly using large effect loci (Czorlich et al. 2018, 2022; Jensen et al. 2023), but many questions remain unanswered about the genetic architecture of adaptation and its impact on population growth. The project outcomes should provide practical insights into salmon population management, fundamental knowledge regarding the genetic architecture of adaptation, and methodological advancements, such as validating spatial genomic methods with temporal demographic and genomic data.

About NINA
The Norwegian Institute for Nature Research (NINA) is an independent foundation that researches nature and the interaction between nature and society. NINA was established in 1988 and has more than 330 employees today. The head office is situated in Trondheim, with branch offices in Tromsø, Lillehammer, Bergen, and Oslo. NINA offers a dynamic and stimulating environment for research, including a team of about 50 researchers and technicians dedicated to salmonid research. As one of the world’s largest salmonid research groups, NINA is home to experts in salmon ecology, genetics, and evolution. This collaborative atmosphere provides an ideal setting for engaging in a multi-disciplinary research project, making it an exciting opportunity for postdoctoral researchers. This project also involves national and international collaborators across Europe and possibilities of research visits. For further information about NINA, visit www.nina.no.

Responsibilities
The postdoctoral researcher will be responsible for:
• Conducting data analysis and modelling, potentially across multiple work packages
• Publishing research findings in peer-reviewed journals

Qualifications
Applicants should preferentially have:
• A PhD in Ecology, Evolutionary Biology, Genetics, or a related field
• Strong quantitative skills and experience in Bayesian analyses (in Jags, Nimble or Stan)
• Proficiency in programming languages such as R
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Multidisciplinary interests (e.g. genomic, population dynamics) and be a team player.

Proficiency in spoken and written English will be necessary to complete the scientific tasks in the project. NINA's everyday language is Norwegian, and language training is provided.

NINA offers:
• A workplace in one of Europe's foremost environmental institutes
• Salary by qualifications
• Flexi-time scheme
• Good pension scheme and group life insurance
• Good opportunities for professional development
• A work and career development plan will be tailored for the candidate to ensure future employment prospects
• A pleasant working environment in modern premises of high standard

The successful candidate will receive a competitive salary commensurate with experience, access to state-of-the-art research facilities, professional development, and networking opportunities. They will also have the chance to collaborate with leading experts in the field and contribute to high-impact research in evolutionary biology. Additional funding should be provided to cover the expenses related to a research stay abroad (see Research Stays Abroad forskningsradet.no).

The application must contain:
• A cover letter outlining the candidate’s professional experience and interests relevant to the position's scope.
• A curriculum vitae with information on education, professional experience, publications and presentations.
• Up to five examples of research products that illustrate the applicant’s qualifications. Products can include published articles, technical reports or unpublished manuscripts. All materials will be treated in confidence.
• Contact information for up to three referees who can speak in support of the candidate's qualifications. Candidates will be notified before their referees are contacted.

Selected qualified candidates will be called in for an interview.

For NINA, a good working environment is characterized by diversity. We encourage qualified candidates to apply regardless of gender, functional ability, cultural background or if you have been out of work for some time. If necessary, the workplace will be adapted for people with disabilities.

Please indicate whether you are interested in international mobility (from 3 months to one year, not mandatory) and your desired starting date.

The preferred commencement date is in the summer of 2024.

Questions about the position can be directed to Researcher Yann Czorlich, phone +47 413 99 266 or Research Director Anne Kristin Jøranlid, phone +47 975 42 352.

Closing date: April 1st