We currently have a postdoctoral position available in Tamás Székely’s lab at the University of Debrecen, and I would be very grateful if you could circulate the attached advertisement among your students, colleagues and wider research networks.

The position combines field research on breeding and non-breeding shorebirds with microbial sampling and quantitative analysis. It is part of a collaborative project with Prof. Sam Sheppard at the University of Oxford investigating the role of migratory birds in the spread of antimicrobial resistance.

We are particularly interested in candidates with experience in behavioural ecology, population ecology, field biology, wildlife conservation, disease ecology or microbiology. Field experience, proficiency in R, a bird-ringing licence and a driving licence are required.

The position is available immediately and is funded until 31 December 2027.

 

POSITION OVERVIEW. We are seeking a motivated and talented field biologist to
join our team. The post-doc will carry out field investigations of breeding and non-
breeding shorebirds and combine this with microbial sampling. We seek applicants
with strong background in evolutionary biology, animal behaviour or ecology, and
willingness to learn microbial ecology. The position is part of a collaborative
project “The role of migratory birds in spreading antimicrobial resistance” funded
by the Hungarian Research agency (HUN-REN). This is a joint project with Prof Sam
Sheppard (Oxford University).

ABOUT US: The position is based at University of Debrecen (Hungary) where our
team has approximately dozen PhD students, postdocs and collaborating
academics. The post-doc will be mentored by an international team of scientists.
We continue to aim high profile publications (see below). Beyond significance in
ecology, animal behaviour and evolution, our research has direct implications for
biodiversity conservation by preserving species and by working with local
communities to protect shorebird habitats. We work globally using an
international network of scientists and conservationists, see www.szekelylab.com

FURTHER DETAILS. The main task of the post-doc is to carry out field investigations
of both breeding and non-breeding shorebirds, use efficient microbiological
sampling protocols in the field, carry out data analyses and publish papers. In
addition, s/he will advise research of MSc and PhD students and possibly
contribute at modest level to postgraduate teaching (all in English).
We seek applicants with strong research background in one (or more) of the
following fields: behavioural ecology, population ecology, field biology, wildlife
conservation, disease ecology and microbiology. Applicants should have a Ph.D. in
animal ecology, behavioural ecology, population demography or a related field,
and background in quantitative analyses. Good communication and interpersonal
skills are essential. Knowledge of programming languages such as R is required,
and experience with biostatistics or demography is desirable. Proficiency in English
is essential as is research track matching the career stage of the applicant. Field
experience, bird ringing licence and full driving licence are essential.

DURATION: The position is available immediately and the contract will be offered
until 31 December 2027.

SALARY: The gross salary is up to 800,000 HuF per month (approx 2,200 EURO).
Living in Hungary is substantially cheaper than in Western Europe, and the salary
we offer is equivalent of an assistant professorial salary in Hungary. Social and
health insurance contributions are independent of salary and paid by the
employer.

ENVIRONMENT: The position is based in Debrecen: a vibrant and liveable city in
eastern Hungary with large international student community. Debrecen has good
public services, and rental housing and food are affordable. The post-doc will be
based at the Department of Evolutionary Zoology. Our research team works
closely with Hortobagy National Park – a UNESCO Heritage Site just outside
Debrecen.

HOW TO APPLY: Please send i) a cover letter explaining your research interests and
suitability for the position, ii) your CV with a list of scientific publications, and iii)
contact information of two referees to Ms Rita Nagy nagy.rita@science.unideb.hu
Interested applicants should contact Prof Székely T.Szekely@bath.ac.uk