Date

Ph.D. Opportunity
Global Change and the Evolution and Migration of Scots Pine
University of Oulu, Finland

EXTENDED Application Deadline: Monday, 31 July 2006

For further information, please contact:
Dr. Sheila Hicks
E-mail: sheila.hicks [at] oulu.fi


Applications are invited for a three-year Ph.D. contract beginning in
September 2006, as part of the interdisciplinary project "Global Change
and the Evolution and Migration of Scots Pine" (GEMS) within the Thule
Institute's Global Change in the North research programme. The GEMS team
comprises both palaeoecologists and geneticists. As a member of this
team, the Ph.D. student will focus on using pollen analysis to pinpoint
the first arrival and direction of spread of Scots pine into northern
Fennoscandia to link with investigations concerning the genetic history
of the species.

The successful candidate will have completed a degree in Quaternary
Geology, Physical Geography, or Biology. He/she should have experience
in pollen analysis, a good knowledge of the Holocene history of northern
Europe, and a strong background in numerical analysis methods. Knowledge
of the use of databases would be considered an advantage. He/she should
be prepared to travel and also be able to converse easily in English.

Applications may be written in either English or Finnish and should
include a CV and verified copies of the relevant degree, employment, and
language proficiency certificates. It should also include a 1-2 page
(A4) review explaining the interest that the candidate has in this topic
and the skills and experience that he/she will bring to the research
group. Also, please provide the name and telephone number of two people
who may, if necessary, be contacted as a reference. Applications should
be sent to the address below to arrive not later than Monday, 31 July
2006. Applications received in connection with the earlier closing date
of 31 May will also be taken into consideration.

Applications should be sent to:
Dr. Sheila Hicks
Institute of Geosciences
PL 3000
90014 University of Oulu
Finland