(Level A) $78,544 - $105,611 per annum plus an employer contribution of 17% superannuation applies.
Fixed term position for 2 years
Postdoc opportunity – Plastic brains: Neural adaptations to changing environments in reptiles
Projects summary:
A fixed-term Level A grant-funded researcher position is available for two years as part of an ARC Discovery project on the evolution of brains in snakes and lizards, in the School of Biological Sciences at the University with Dr Jenna Crowe-Riddell and A/Prof. Kate Sanders. The project collaborators also include Prof. Shaun Collin from La Trobe University, Dr Alice Clement and Prof Mike Lee from Flinders University and A/Prof. Alison Davis Rabosky from the University of Michigan, USA.
The aim of the project is to generate new knowledge on the evolution of squamate reptile brains as these animals adapted to new habitats and climates. The project explores how brains have evolved in three groups, dragons, goannas and venomous snakes, with a focus on Australian adaptive radiations. Complementing these macroevolutionary approaches, the project also explores dynamics of embryonic and ontogenetic brain growth to understand the evolutionary lability of reptilian brains in response to environmental and climatic change.
The project uses soft tissue micro-CT scanning (diffusible iodine contrast-enhanced micro-CT scanning) of herpetological specimens from museum collections to generate high-resolution models of brain morphology. This will be complemented by quantitative analyses to determine neuronal packing in squamate brains (e.g. histology, isotropic fractionation and flow cytometry).
The project has access to state-of-the-art microscopy services through Adelaide Microscopy at the University and the Bioimaging Platform at La Trobe University. The project also has access to high-powered workstations and microCT scanning facilities based at the University of Adelaide, Flinders University and the University of Michigan.
To be successful you will need:
- A PhD in the discipline of evolutionary biology, morphology/cell analysis, comparative neurobiology, and/or equivalent qualifications or research experience in related areas.
- Track record of publication of research in high quality, peer-reviewed journals relative to opportunity and evidence of being involved in professional activities related to research.
- Effective organisational skills including the ability to prioritise and manage workload within a busy environment to meet competing deadlines.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and productively with staff.
The path to Adelaide University
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If you have the talent, we'll give you the opportunity. Together, let's make history.
Click on the ‘Apply Now’ button to be taken through to the online application form. Please ensure you submit a cover letter, resume, and upload a document that includes your responses to all of the selection criteria for the position as contained in the position description or selection criteria document.
Applications close 11:55pm, 25 March 2025
For further information
For a confidential discussion regarding this position, contact:
Jenna Crowe-Riddell
School of Biological Sciences
jenna.crowe-riddell@adelaide.edu.au
You'll find a full selection criteria below: (If no links appear, try viewing on another device)
The University reserves the right to close this advertisement before the closing date if a suitable candidate is identified
The University is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion. Female applicants, people with a disability and/or and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who meet the requirements of this position are strongly encouraged to apply. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at time of application.
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