PhD: Avian Communication
in Anthropogenic Noise
Anthropogenic influences on animal behaviour are an area of
increasing interest, from applied conservation & biodiversity,
to fundamental questions of ethology and adaptation. Recent
research on a range of taxa has revealed differences in the
characteristics of acoustic signals both between areas of low
and high background noise and between areas of different
environmental structure (e.g. urban vs rural).
This project will focus on the implications of these differences
in environment and signal traits for signal efficacy, function
and evolution using wild great tits Parus major as a
model system. The research will involve a combination of
field-based observation & experimentation, including playback.
The aim is to investigate acoustic ecology and behavioural
plasticity in the context of territoriality, reproduction and
associated behaviours. The successful candidate will also be
encouraged to develop their own ideas and research questions
within this framework.
The project will be based in Aberystwyth with fieldwork to be
conducted in Aberystwyth and at locations around the UK. The
student will be based within the Aquatic, Behavioural &
Evolutionary Biology Research Group (ABEB).
Full funding (fees &
stipend at standard UK rate) is available, in competition with
other projects. Funding will be awarded to the best students
over all advertised projects.
Informal enquiries are welcome and can be sent direct via email
to Dr Marshall:
rmm@aber.ac.uk
Please apply using the standard Aberystwyth University
application form and procedure available here:
http://www.aber.ac.uk/en/postgrad/howtoapply/ Applicants
should hold or expect to gain a 1st class honours degree or
equivalent.
All application materials, including at least two referee
reports, must be received by the deadline: 23rd
May 2013
