Schools of Biological Sciences and of Mathematics and Statistics
Faculty of Science
Reference No. 145106
The Faculty of Science is a leading provider of education across the spectrum of the sciences. It offers a diverse range of specialisations, research programs and facilities, and an extensive liaison with international institutions. The Schools of Biological Sciences and Mathematics and Statistics are a core part of the Faculty dedicated to producing world-class research teaching and research programs in Biology and Mathematics.
The Schools are currently seeking a results-driven Postdoctoral Fellow to conduct research into a project that will investigate how different nest-site requirements have shaped collective decision-making processes in two species of honey bee. In recent years nest-site selection by colonies of insects has served as a model system to study the speed-accuracy trade-off in decentralised decision-making systems.
This project will investigate the speed-accuracy trade-off in the cavity nesting western hive bee Apis mellifera and the open nesting red dwarf bee A. florea. Both regularly need to select a new nest site and both need to come to a decision quickly while selecting the most appropriate site. However, due to their fundamentally different nest site requirements (a cavity in a tree versus a shaded branch) natural selection has shaped their respective speed-accuracy trade-offs in different ways to ensure the best possible outcome for each species.
This project brings together behavioural ecology and mathematical biology. It provides a unique opportunity for the appointee to work in an interdisciplinary setting. Experimental and observational data will be integrated into mathematical and/or computational models. At all times will the appointee work together with behavioural ecologists.
To succeed, the appointee will have a relevant PhD, an interest in social insects and/or collective behaviour, and experience with mathematical and/or computational modelling. A broad mathematical background will be highly advantageous, as will an ability to attract grant funding.
This role is suited to an innovative and mature individual who is capable to self-manage their workload. Joining a team comprising of mathematicians and biologists, the appointee will benefit from training available in interdisciplinary research in decentralised decision-making and potentially take on a leadership role that will shape the future direction of the project.
The position is full-time fixed term for three years, subject to the completion of a satisfactory probation period for new appointees. Successful applicants will be interviewed in March 2009.
Remuneration package Level A Step 6: $78,288 p.a. (which includes a base salary $66,155 p.a., leave loading and up to 17% employer’s contribution to superannuation). Assistance towards relocation and Visa sponsorship will be provided for the successful appointees if required.
For more information and to apply, please visit http://positions.usyd.edu.au/nature21
For specific information about the position, please contact Associate Professor Madeleine Beekman by email: mbeekman@bio.usyd.edu.au or Dr. Mary Myerscough by email: m.myerscough@maths.usyd.edu.au General enquiries can be directed to Fabrice Noël on (+61 2) 9036 7295 or by email: f.noel@usyd.edu.au
Closing Date: 5 February 2009
