Closing Date: February 15 Postdoc in Sperm Evolutionary/Cell Biology at the Department of Zoology, Stockholm University Closing date: February 15 2024 Postdoctoral scholarship (tax-free stipend, 100%) for a period of 2 years (start date as soon as possible, but slightly flexible for the right candidate). The Snook lab at the University of Stockholm, Department of Zoology, is looking for an ambitious, problem solving postdoc, interested in the evolution of sperm - the most diverse cell type - spermatogenesis, fertilization, microscopy, and collaboration across different disciplines. Project description The successful candidate will be part of an interdisciplinary research project, based at Stockholm University in the lab of Professor Rhonda Snook. The aim of the work is "The evolution of sperm cell shape and motion" in insects funded by the Human Frontiers Science Program with research partners at the University of Lincoln (UK) and Tulane University (USA). We will build on recent developments in transgenic techniques to label sperm, manufacture of custom microfluidic devices, computational biophysical models, and understanding of how coevolution between the female reproductive tract and sperm shape effect fertilization success, to establish a phylogenetic perspective of the evolution of sperm shape diversity. The overall aim for the project in the Snook lab will involve: 1) analyses addressing evolutionary diversity in sperm shape in insects, 2) assessing how intraspecific variation in sperm length impacts sperm movement and function within the female reproductive tract using molecular biology techniques and advanced microscopy, including micro- CT, fluroescent and other microscopy approaches, and 3) testing the relationship between sperm length and sperm motility in the closed system of the female reproductive tract by using experimental analogues (e.g., microfluidic devices), combined with microscopy and biophysical modelling (the latter lead by consortium partners). The appointee is expected to take full responsibility for the practical coordination of experiments, and take the leadership role in the collection and analysis of data generated, as well as writing of manuscripts. The appointee will participate in weekly Snook lab meetings and in monthly consortium meetings, and present results at national and international conferences. The appointee will interact with and mentor graduate and undergraduate students in the lab. Qualification requirements Salary is provided as a tax-free scholarship stipend of 27500 SEK per month. Thus, only non- Swedish citizens with a doctoral degree or similar equivalent acquired in a country other than Sweden can apply. The applicant must have a PhD in evolutionary biology, zoology or cell biology, or a similar subject from a non-Swedish accredited college/university. The degree must have been completed at latest before the employment decision is made, but no more than three years before the closing date. An older degree may be acceptable under special circumstances. Special reasons refer to sick leave, parental leave, elected positions in trade unions, service in the total defense, or other similar circumstances as well as clinical attachment or service/assignments relevant to the subject area. Assessment criteria and terms Overall, this is an innovative and collaborative opportunity combining diverse fields to answer outstanding questions about the evolution of the most diverse cell type. For work in the Snook lab, a strong candidate will have a background in evolutionary biology, zoology or cell biology. Ideally, the candidate will have experience in microscopy and a demonstrated track record of problem solving. Prior training in insect rearing desirable. There will be training opportunities for all aspects of the project, including but not limited to microCT scanning and microfluidic device development. There is scope to develop parallel projects for an organized candidate. Given the interdisciplinary and collaborative nature of the funding, applicants should be good communicators and happy to work in an international team, spread across three countries, as well as work independently to solve challenging technical problems. Working language is English. The position is a full-time stipend for two years. As this is a stipend, the position is considered educational and the PI is the educational host. Start date as soon as possible. Stockholm University and the Snook lab strives to be a workplace free from discrimination and with equal opportunities for all. Contact Further information about the position can be obtained from Professor Rhonda Snook (host and project leader), email: rhonda.snook@zoologi.su.se Application Apply for the position at rhonda.snook@zoologi.su.se Applications will be evaluated as they come in so apply as early as possible, up through the deadline. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that the application is complete in accordance with the instructions in the advertisement, and that it is submitted before the deadline. Please include the following information in your application as a combined pdf file entitled "XX application for Snook" where XX is your name. * Cover letter outlining why you are interested in, and what makes you suitable for, the position. No more than 2 pages and preferably with some reference to the relevant literature. * Your CV - including contact details, degrees and other completed courses, work experience and a list of publications * Contact details for 2-3 references * A copy of your PhD diploma will need to be provided if you are chosen. Rhonda Snook rhonda.snook@zoologi.su.se Rhonda R Snook Professor EcologyDivision Department of Zoology Stockholm University, Sweden Rhonda Snook (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to golding@mcmaster.ca)