Postdoctoral fellowship in eDNA metabarcoding of freshwater and marine aquatic biodiversity in southern Africa Applications are open for a full-time, two-year postdoctoral position to be hosted by the von der Heyden lab at the Department of Botany and Zoology at Stellenbosch University, South Africa. The successful fellow will take on a leading role projects that makes use of eDNA metabarcoding and species distribution modelling of fish and invertebrate communities in southern Africa and investigate the use of metabarcoding data for various ecological questions. This is a unique opportunity for someone interested in the application of eDNA surveys for conservation and management of biodiversity, whilst seeing southern Africa and supporting the establishment of eDNA surveys for biomonitoring in the region. The primary focus of our research projects is to use environmental DNA metabarcoding to characterise community diversity in a variety of marine (South African coastline) and freshwater ecosystems (Okavango Delta), to not only allow comparison between sites, but to assess this methodology as a tool for monitoring ecosystems changes. Our lab has built significant expertise in developing and carrying out eDNA based research in marine and freshwater ecosystems in the region. The project is based in the research group of Prof. Sophie von der Heyden and has collaborators in Botswana, Switzerland and Namibia. The starting data for this position is flexible, but ideally no later than May/June 2024. Qualifications and experience: Applicants will require a PhD (obtained within the last four years), with preference given to applicants with a strong background in at least one, but ideally two, of the following fields: eDNA metabarcoding, molecular ecology, species distribution modelling, biological statistics, coastal ecology or freshwater biology. Applicants should have at least three peer-reviewed outputs in an international peer-reviewed journal; the outputs need to demonstrate senior/lead authorship with a strong focus on eDNA metabarcoding in aquatic environments. A valid driver's license is a requirement due to the extensive field work along the South African coastline. Applicants should be motivated, independent, and willing to engage and mentor postgraduate students at several levels (ranging from Honours to PhD), as well as be willing to work in remote environments. There is a fieldwork component in Botswana and along the South African coastline. Responsibilities: Applicants will be required to collaborate with all collaborators and students, with the fellow be able to plan and lead field trips, as well as analyse data, writing and publication of peer-reviewed articles, presentations at national and international conferences, and science communication initiatives. Mentorship and some teaching opportunities will be possible for the successful fellow depending on level of experience. Duration: This is a two year position ideally starting no later than May/June 2024. Value: The position carries a value of R350 000 per year (tax free), which comfortably covers needs of living in Stellenbosch and is available for two years. Relocation costs (flights) can be covered. Background: The postdoctoral fellow will be based at the von der Heyden Lab at Stellenbosch University, one of Africa's leading aquatic (marine, estuarine and freshwater) research groups specializing in the use of molecular tools to understand patterns and processes driving southern Africa's rich marine biodiversity. We are a dynamic lab, with a strong emphasis on research excellence as well as student training and support. Our work spans population genetics and phylogeography, fisheries management/stock identification, historical biogeography and the impacts of historical and contemporary climate change on species distributions. To do this, we utilise a wide range of tools including genomics and environmental DNA, with our overarching goal of promoting the integration of molecular tools into conservation and sustainable utilization of southern African marine species and resources. You can find out more about the von der Heyden lab and marine research at Stellenbosch University here: www.vonderheydenlab.com, via FaceBook: www.facebook.com/vonderheydenlab. The vdH lab is housed in the Department of Botany and Zoology at the University of Stellenbosch. This university is one of the top-ranked in the southern Hemisphere, with strong undergraduate and postgraduate training and research. Stellenbosch is a historical, safe and vibrant community surrounded by magnificent mountains, close to the sea and ideal for nature (and wine) enthusiasts. Find out more at www.sun.ac.za. Queries and applications: Please direct all enquiries to Prof. Sophie von der Heyden (svdh@sun.ac.za). In order to apply, please submit (1) a detailed CV with all relevant experience including publications and conference attendance, (2) three contactable referees, (3) a letter of motivation. We are committed to supporting candidates based on excellence as well as equity. 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