This PhD project will focus on sex role behaviour and demography in shorebirds. Using behavioural observations in wild populations it will investigate causes of courtship behaviour, pair bonding and parenting. The PhD student will test whether (i) sex role behaviours are induced by ambient environment, demographic parameters or social environment, (ii) explore the relationship between different sex role components, and (iii) test the fitness implications of sex role variations. We are also interested in the conservation implications of shorebird field biology and the particular targeting of the PhD project will be developed together with a successful applicant.

The ideal candidate has a strong interest in evolutionary biology, behavioural ecology and field biology, willing to work in remote areas, e.g. Arctic regions, South America, South Africa or elsewhere. He/she needs to have a solid background in data analyses preferably in R, and statistical modelling. A condition of the application is a Master degree (or equivalent) in biology, zoology or a similar subject. Experience in field ornithology and bird ringing or the use of comparative methods is desirable but not essential. 

We are preferably seeking candidates willing to raise their own funding but there are other options too.

The studentship can start during March – September 2022. 

Interested candidates should contact Vojtěch Kubelka kubelkav@gmail.com. Applications that include a CV (max 3 pages) and a max 2 pages cover letter with personal motivation and the name and contact details of two references (both documents in English) should be sent to Vojtěch Kubelka before the deadline.