Assistant Professor position in Evolutionary Adaptation in the Anthropocene

The Amsterdam Institute for Life and Environment (A-LIFE) invites applications for an Assistant Professor in molecular evolution in the field of Evolutionary Adaptation in the Anthropocene.

• O2 Gebouw
• Amsterdam

Humans are causing unprecedented and fast changes on our planet, challenging scientists to understand how anthropogenic environmental change affects the evolution of traits and interactions of species. Genetic and phenotypic variation play a crucial role in adaptation of species to anthropogenic habitats. We are looking for candidates who combine outstanding research with enthusiastic teaching, in understanding the molecular basis of adaptation in human-impacted environments, using approaches such as epigenetics, transcriptomics, and functional genetics. Candidates studying the molecular effect of selection pressure caused by pollution and/or urbanization on terrestrial invertebrates are specifically invited to apply. The position is embedded in the section Ecology & Evolution, a vibrant research group with a strong global track record in conservation genomics, stress adaptation, species interactions and trait ecology. The candidates are expected to contribute to our focus on integrative ecological and evolutionary research.

The Amsterdam Institute for Life and Environment (A-LIFE) offers a stimulating international research environment with a world-class academic reputation, and state-of-the-art facilities. We have a strong commitment to bachelor and master level teaching. Research in the institute covers a wide range of fundamental and applied research topics with the aim of advancing the fundamental understanding of the interplay between life and its environment. The section’s strength lies in the ability to integrate studies of adaptive changes across the entire range of biological organizational levels, including human populations. We do this as an international, inclusive, and collaborative group of researchers.

Your duties

• develop a vigorous, largely extramurally funded research program
• teach bachelor and master level courses in evolution, ecology, ecotoxicology or related subjects
• provide high-quality training and supervision to BSc and MSc-students, PhD-students and postdocs
• engage in professional development activities related to teaching and academic leadership

Your profile

• PhD in evolutionary biology, molecular biology, ecotoxicology or related field with at least three years of postdoctoral experience
• strong track record of research and publications in the field of evolutionary adaptation to anthropogenic environmental changes
• proven ability for acquisition of external funding
• demonstrated skills in activating teaching methods in BSc and MSc level courses
• excellent communication skills (written and spoken English) and motivation to work in a team
• proficiency in Dutch is not required, but the successful candidate is expected to develop at least a passive proficiency within three years after appointment

What do we offer?

A challenging position in a socially engaged organisation. At VU Amsterdam, you contribute to education, research and service for a better world. And that is valuable. So in return for your efforts, we offer you:

• a salary of minimum € 4.925,00 (Scale 11) and maximum € 6.682,00 (Scale 11) gross per month, on a full-time basis. This is based on UFO profile Lecturer / Assistant Professor 2. The exact salary depends on your education and experience
• a position for at least 0.8 FTE. Your employment contract will initially last 1 year. Afterwards, there is a prospect of a permanent contract

We also offer you attractive fringe benefits and regulations. Some examples:

• a full-time 38-hour working week comes with a holiday leave entitlement of 232 hours per year. If you choose to work 40 hours, you have 96 extra holiday leave hours on an annual basis. For part-timers, this is calculated pro rata
• 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% end-of-year bonus
• contribution to commuting expenses
• hybrid working enables a good work-life balance
• possibility to save holiday hours, for sabbatical leave

About us

About the department,
The Amsterdam Institute for Life and Environment (A-LIFE) offers a stimulating international research environment with a world-class academic reputation and excellent state-of-the-art facilities. Research in the section Ecology & Evolution covers a wide range of fundamental and applied research topics, including stress ecology, species interactions, evolutionary adaptation, symbiotic interactions, climate change and ecosystem functioning and investigates a variety of animal species. The section’s strength lies in the ability to integrate studies of adaptive changes across the entire range of biological organizational levels. We do this as an international, inclusive, and collaborative group of researchers.

Faculty of Science
Working at the Faculty of Science means collaborating with students, lecturers and researchers who are focused on their field, yet have a broad view of the world. We are proud of a positive and inclusive workplace culture within the faculty, where we work together with great energy and a pragmatic attitude to tackle social challenges. At the Faculty of Science, scientists and students work on fundamental and complex societal issues for a sustainable, healthy and just future.

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam stands for values-driven education and research. We are open-minded experts with the ability to think freely - a broader mind. Maintaining an entrepreneurial perspective and concentrating on diversity, significance and humanity, we work on sustainable solutions with social impact. By joining forces, across the boundaries of disciplines, we work towards a better world for people and planet. Together we create a safe and respectful working and study climate, and an inspiring environment for education and research.

We are located on one physical campus, in the heart of Amsterdam's Zuidas business district, with excellent location and accessibility.