A postdoctoral position is available with Jessica Stephenson
(https://stephensonlab.com/) in the Department of Zoology, Stockholm
University, Stockholm, Sweden. We work to understand the interactions
between host behaviour and parasitism across scales. In this project,
the successful candidate will address how host behaviour may structure
parasite population genetics and thus affect parasite evolutionary
potential.

The postdoc will use existing data on directly transmitted gyrodactylid
parasites, guppies, and localities in northern Trinidad to test how
river structure, host community composition, parasite host spectrum, and
host social behavior interact to shape the structure and evolutionary
potential of parasite populations. Other existing datasets may enable
further studies, for example of the fish or environmental microbiome,
and how population genomic structure influences the virulence phenotype
of the parasite.

The postdoc will work in close collaboration with Mary Janecka at the
Carnegie Museum of Natural History and with research groups at the
Department of Zoology with strong expertise in population genetics and
evolutionary genomics.

**Job duties

Postdoctoral positions are primarily research-oriented. The postdoctoral
fellow will work on the analysis of existing SNP (single nucleotide
polymorphism) data from two parasite species from multiple locations in
Trinidad. Questions that these data can be used to answer include:

    - How does the parasite's host spectrum (generalist vs. specialist)
      affect how parasite populations are structured across different
      host communities?
    - How does the complexity of the river network affect the structure
      of parasite populations?
    - How does host behavior affect the structure of parasite
      populations?

In addition to these core questions, there are several additional research
directions that the postdoctoral fellow can develop depending on interest
and expertise.

**Eligibility requirements

To be eligible for employment as a postdoctoral researcher, a doctoral
degree or a foreign degree that is deemed equivalent to the relevant
doctoral degree is required. The degree must be completed no later than
when the employment decision is made.

**Assessment criteria

It is considered meritorious if the doctoral degree or equivalent has been
completed no more than three years before the application deadline. If
there are special reasons, a previously completed degree may also be
considered meritorious. Special reasons refer to leave due to illness,
parental leave, positions of trust in trade unions, service in the total
defense, or other similar circumstances, as well as clinical service or
service/assignment relevant to the subject area.

In the appointment, special emphasis will be placed on scientific
expertise. Ideal candidates have experience working with challenging
genomic data, such as data from parasites, other very small organisms
or faecal samples. Experience using such data to understand population
dynamics, species interactions and/or complex reproductive strategies
(e.g. clonal reproduction) is highly desirable. We are also looking
for someone with the ability to synthesize ideas and data across
different fields, including landscape and riverine genomics, and a
strong publication record that demonstrates these skills. Very good
written and oral communication skills are required.

**About the employment

The position is full-time and is valid until further notice, however,
for a minimum of two years and a maximum of three years, with the
possibility of extension if there are special reasons. Entry into force
in spring/summer 2026 or by agreement.

**We offer

With us you get the dynamic interaction between higher education and
research that makes Stockholm University an exciting and creative
environment. You work in an international environment and receive
favorable conditions. The university is located in the National City
Park with good connections to the city.

Stockholm University strives to be a workplace that is free from
discrimination and provides equal rights and opportunities for everyone.

**Contact

Information about the position is provided by Jessica Stephenson,
jess.stephenson@zoologi.su.se.

**Application

You apply for the position via Stockholm University's recruitment
system. Attach a cover letter and CV as well as the attachments requested
in the application form. As the applicant, you are responsible for
ensuring that the application is complete and that it reaches the
university by the application deadline.

Instructions for applicants can be found on the website:
https://www.su.se/om-universitetet/jobba-pa-su/att-soka-en-anstallning.
Stockholm University contributes to the development of a sustainable
democratic society through knowledge, enlightenment and the search
for truth.

Jess Stephenson <jess.stephenson@zoologi.su.se>

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