**** Postdoc position: avian microbiomes and reproduction ****

We are seeking a highy motivated postdoctoral researcher to join our
team working on avian microbiomes and reproductioon at the Netherlands
Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW) in the group of Dr. Melissah Rowe. The
postdoc will work on an ERC-funded project where the overarching aim
is to understand the significance of reproductive microbiomes for host
biology and fitness.

The position is available for up to 3.5 years (1 year initial contract
with extension to 3.5 years upon satisfactory performance). Starting
date is flexible, preferably between November 2025 - January 2026.

Review of applications will begin September 1, 2025. Final date for
receiving applications is September 12, 2025. First round interviews
are expected to take place in September.

** Project description **
All animals host microbial communities in and on their bodies, and recent
studies have shown that variation in these microbiomes can have major
impacts on their hosts, including effects on digestion, development,
immunity, and behaviour. Indeed, microbiomes are emerging as fundamental
modulators of host biology, fitness, and evolution. The study of
host-associated microbiomes has, however, largely overlooked the microbial
communities present in the reproductive systems of males and females
(i.e., the reproductive microbiome).  In this project, the postdoctoral
researcher will study the impact of microbiome variation on host survival
and reproduction, with a focus on the role of the reproductive microbiome,
using novel microbiota manipulation techniques in an avian model system,
the house sparrow. In addition, the postdoc is expected to contribute
to the project development, suggest additional lines of complementary
research using our system, and can join and contribute to other projects
on avian microbiomes in the research group.  As a postdoctoral researcher,
you will lead this research. Your responsibilities will include:

  *   Setting up and running in vivo microbiota manipulations in nestling
  house sparrows;
  *   Developing and evaluating additional microbiome disruption
  approaches;
  *   Leading and conducting sample collection from house sparrows
  (nestlings and adults);
  *   Contributing to laboratory analysis of samples;
  *   Bioinformatic analysis of microbiome data;
  *   Preparation of manuscripts and dissemination of research findings;
  *   Assist with training other researchers, including PhD candidates,
  and supervising masters and bachelor student projects;
  *   Contributing to the friendly and collaborative environment of the
  research group.

** What are we looking for **
Suitable candidates should have a PhD in evolutionary biology,
evolutionary ecology, molecular biology or related field by the time of
starting the position. You will bring:

  *   Experience in animal-microbiome research, documented by publications
  in peer-reviewed journals;
  *   Skills in bioinformatics and statistical analysis of microbiome
  data;
  *   Experience working with animals;
  *   Meticulous working habits and strong organisational skills;
  *   English communication skills, both written and spoken;
  *   Creativity, motivation, and curiosity in order to contribute
  intellectually to the project development.

** More information **
For informal inquiries and more information, do not hesitate to contact:
Melissah Rowe, m.rowe@nioo.knaw.nlInformation
on the Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW) and the Department
of Animal Ecology can be found at the website: http://www.nioo.knaw.nl/
(external link) <http://www.nioo.knaw.nl/>.

** Application procedure **
Your application (written in English) should include: (1) a one-page
cover letter describing your motivation for the position; (2) a summary
of your research expertise and interests (max 2-pages); (3) a detailed
CV including information on your education, past research experience and
activities, publications, and other relevant information; (4) contact
information for at least 3 referees..

For further information and to apply please see:
https://nioo.knaw.nl/en/vacancies/postdoctoral-researcher-avian-microbiomes-and-reproduction

"Rowe, Melissah" <M.Rowe@nioo.knaw.nl>

M.Rowe@nioo.knaw.nl

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