Postdoctoral fixed-term contract (M/F) – Theoretical approaches to the eco-evolutionary dynamics of food webs – the roles of predation and competition

Job Description

Missions

Understanding biodiversity and its dynamics is one of the most crucial issues of our time, against the worrying backdrop of the collapse of biodiversity. To contribute to this, the ECO-EVO BIODIV project aims to develop an integrative eco-evolutionary approach. The project's overall framework encompasses the main facets of biodiversity (levels of biodiversity, biological groups, and intra- and interspecific variability), the forces and processes that shape them, their spatio-temporal context, and their environment.
ECO-EVO BIODIV draws on a wide range of conceptual frameworks, approaches and methods from an interdisciplinary perspective. Within this framework, the research proposed for this postdoctoral position aims to understand, using mathematical models, how intraspecific and interspecific interactions work together to shape the dynamics of simple trophic modules (e.g. one predator, two prey species and one resource) in a spatialised context. The focus is therefore on coexistence arising from dynamics that are both ecological and evolutionary, via processes of competition and predation. Particular attention will be paid to the link between these evolutionary dynamics and the assembly of trophic modules, which corresponds, for example, to a situation of biological invasions. This work will also enable us to analyse how eco-evolutionary dynamics of this type operate in a case study analysed within ECO-EVO BIODIV: the freshwater habitats of Martinique (subject to long-term monitoring).
More specifically, the issues outlined here relate to data obtained in the wild concerning trophic modules comprising a crayfish that preys on two species of snail competing for the same food resource (biofilm). These modules play a key role in local freshwater ecosystems. Phylogenetically and ecologically closely related, the two snail species are clonal – competition therefore occurs both within and between species. The crayfish exhibits marked sexual dimorphism, which affects predation. This system has become established through invasion over the last few decades.

Activity

The work is based on analytical and simulation-based modelling approaches – inspiration may be drawn from previous approaches (developed in particular by the host teams). An initial phase will aim to familiarise researchers with the models to be developed (e.g. adaptive dynamics models), followed by the construction of theoretical eco-evolutionary models of increasing complexity to analyse invasion dynamics, niche shifting, underlying mechanisms, effects on abundances and traits at different levels of the food chains, and spatial effects. These models may incorporate traits relating to interactions between species within trophic modules, and their evolution, such as prey's anti-predator defences or resource exploitation strategies. The behaviour of the models can then be qualitatively compared with empirical data from Martinique (or other examples). The successful candidate will also have the opportunity to take part in fieldwork in Martinique.

Your Profil

Skills

The successful candidate must hold a PhD in the fields of ecology or evolutionary biology, with solid experience in modelling or biomathematics.
Required skills:
- Mathematics applied to ecology and evolution
- Simulation modelling
- An interest in ecological and evolutionary theories
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Experience in scientific writing (articles, reports)
- Excellent communication skills (written and oral) in French and English
Useful skills:
- Knowledge of biological invasions or aquatic systems
- Field experience

Your Work Environment

The work will be carried out at the Cefe in Montpellier (France; https://www.cefe.cnrs.fr), in close collaboration with the iEES in Paris (France; https://iees-paris.fr/; regular visits to Paris will be required), in accordance with the operating rules (e.g. working hours, leave) of the CNRS and Sorbonne University. A placement in Paris is a possibility. The Cefe and the iEES are among the leading laboratories in ecology and evolutionary.biology in France, and are particularly well-suited to conducting interdisciplinary research in eco-evolution. The ECO-EVO BIODIV project is based within the Genetics and Evolutionary Ecology (GEE) team at Cefe (https://www.cefe.cnrs.fr/fr/recherche/ee/gee). Full-time position (100%). The successful candidate will carry out this work under the supervision of Philippe Jarne (Montpellier) and Isabelle Gounand, Nicolas Loeuille and François Massol (Sorbonne University, Paris). They will have the opportunity to collaborate with the host teams, other modelling teams, and those directly involved in the study of the Martinique system (Montpellier, Poitiers and Lyon). They will be involved in the entire research process, from design to publication.
For further information, please contact Philippe Jarne (philippe.jarne@cefe.cnrs.fr), Isabelle Gounand (isabelle.gounand@sorbonne-universite.fr), Nicolas Loeuille (nicolas.loeuille@sorbonne-universite.fr), or François Massol (francois.massol@sorbonne-universite.fr).

Constraints and risks

Regular travel within mainland France (Paris). Possible fieldwork in the West Indies. Compliance with operational regulations (health and safety, etc.) in a research laboratory.

Compensation and benefits

Compensation

From €3,071.50, depending on professional experience

Annual leave and RTT

44 jours

Remote Working practice and compensation

Pratique et indemnisation du TT

Transport

Prise en charge à 75% du coût et forfait mobilité durable jusqu’à 300€

About the offer

About the CNRS

The CNRS is a major player in fundamental research on a global scale. The CNRS is the only French organization active in all scientific fields. Its unique position as a multi-specialist allows it to bring together different disciplines to address the most important challenges of the contemporary world, in connection with the actors of change.

CNRS

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