We are looking for a motivated and dynamic Research Associate to join a growing research team focused on mammalian anatomy, evolution, and biomechanics. This position will offer the successful candidate an excellent opportunity to work in a growing and dynamic lab, and gain experience working with cutting-edge morphological imaging and analysis techniques. Passionate early-career researchers with a desire to understand the macroevolutionary patterns underlying locomotor evolution are encouraged to apply.
The appointment is for a full-time Research Associate to work in the lab of Dr. Katrina Jones (https://www.katrinaejones.com/ ), with initial 12-month fixed term contract and the possibility for extension for up to 2.75 years based on satisfactory performance. The position is expected to begin 1st October 2023 and will be primarily in-person, based at University of Manchester, Oxford road campus.
The role will be within the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences at the University of Manchester, within the Interdisciplinary Centre for Ancient Life – a diverse group of paleobiologists with interests spanning taxa and methodologies (http://www.ical.manchester.ac.uk/ ).
The Jones lab specifically focuses on the anatomy and evolution of mammals, and the factors influencing major locomotor transitions. This hire forms part of a Royal Society funded project exploring the evolution of cursoriality in mammals, and particularly the role of the axial skeleton in running. The scope of the role is flexible by may involve biomechanical, functional, and/or morphological evolution of the axial skeleton in cursorial mammals.
Experience of morphological data collection and analysis techniques, such as CT scanning, segmenting, surface scanning, geometric morphometrics, allometry, phylogenetic comparative analysis will be beneficial, and good proficiency in R-programming language is essential. Experience with specimen-based collections research is highly desirable. Excellent written language skills and experience with scientific publication is essential.
During the application process, you will be asked to provide a CV and explain your fit for the position. Please use this space to describe why you are interested in the post, your relevant research skills and experience, and how this role will fit into your long-term career goals.
What you will get in return:
The School of Earth and Environmental Sciences is strongly committed to promoting equality and diversity, including the Athena SWAN Charter for gender equality in higher education. The School holds a Bronze Award which recognises their good practice in relation to gender; including flexible working arrangements, family-friendly policies, and support to allow staff to achieve a good work-life balance.
As an equal opportunities employer we welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, sex, gender (or gender identity), ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation and transgender status. All appointments will be made on merit. For further information, please visit http://www.sees.manchester.ac.uk/about-us/athena-swan/
Our University is positive about flexible working – you can find out more here
Hybrid working arrangements may be considered.
Please note that we are unable to respond to enquiries, accept CVs or applications from Recruitment Agencies.
Any recruitment enquiries from recruitment agencies should be directed to People.Recruitment@manchester.ac.uk.
Any CV’s submitted by a recruitment agency will be considered a gift.
Enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting and interviews:
Name: Katrina Jones
Email: Katrina.jones@manchester.ac.uk
General enquiries:
Email: People.recruitment@manchester.ac.uk
Technical support:
https://jobseekersupport.jobtrain.co.uk/support/home
This vacancy will close for applications at midnight on the closing date.
Please see the link below for the Further Particulars document which contains the person specification criteria.
