Overview

PhD Opportunity with the GLOBE Research Group – ERC CZ Grant

The Global Life-history, Ornithology & Behavioural Ecology (GLOBE) research group focuses on the ecology, behaviour, life-history strategies, and population dynamics of wild animals, especially birds, under environmental change. Led by Vojtěch Kubelka (University of South Bohemia, Czech Republic), the group recently secured an ERC CZ grant (2024–2029) titled « Animal migrations in a changing world – advantageous strategy or maladaptive behaviour? »

This ambitious project examines the benefits and challenges of migration in the face of climate change and human impacts, addressing critical questions about predation, parasitism, food availability, and population limitations. Using a combination of experimental, observational, and comparative approaches, the study spans 16 sites from the Arctic to Patagonia, focusing on migratory shorebirds.

We are seeking a motivated PhD candidate to join this project.

Responsibilities:

  • Enroll in the PhD program (Zoology) at the University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice.
  • Conduct fieldwork across Western Palearctic and South America with international collaborators.
  • Combine experimental/observational methods with literature-based comparative studies.
  • Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals and present results at conferences.
  • Optional: Supervise undergraduate students and contribute to grant applications.

What we offer:

  • A 4-year funded position (ERC CZ and PhD financial support).
  • Access to extensive datasets from study sites across latitudinal gradients.
  • Collaborative and supportive international research environment.
  • Comprehensive research facilities and logistical support.
  • Flexible work conditions, health insurance, and additional benefits, including relocation assistance.
  • University benefits (5 weeks of vacation, 4 personal sick days per year, allowance for meals, Childcare benefits, mobile operator benefits, bank account benefits, language courses)

Requirements:

  • Master’s degree in ecology or related fields.
  • Knowledge of evolutionary ecology, climate change biology, or animal migration.
  • Field research experience, preferably in remote or tropical/polar areas.
  • Ornithological skills (bird handling/ringing preferred).
  • Proficiency in R for statistical modeling.
  • Strong research track record (publications in peer-reviewed journals)

More detailed information about this job offer you can find here: https://www.prf.jcu.cz/images/PRF/fakulta/volna-mista/erc-cz-phd-position-2025.pdf

Application Process: Send the following by 10 January 2025 to Vojtěch Kubelka (vkubelka@prf.jcu.cz):

  • Letter of interest (max 2 pages).
  • Curriculum vitae (max 4 pages).
  • Contact information for at least two references.

Selected candidates will be invited for online interviews. The position start date is negotiable (earliest March 2025).

Location: České Budějovice is a vibrant university town in South Bohemia, offering excellent research infrastructure and access to stunning natural and cultural landscapes, including nearby UNESCO biosphere reserves and national parks.

For details about GLOBE, visit GLOBE Research Group.

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