Postdoctoral Research Associate

Department
The successful candidate will join the Department of Biology at the University of York, as well as a wider project team working on intergroup conflict in animal societies on this ERC Advanced Grant (UKRI-funded). They will also visit the field site in Uganda to gain familiarity with study methods, group identification, and the ecological context of the system. The successful applicant will work with Professor Daniel Franks and Professor Michael Cant to investigate the evolutionary consequences of intergroup conflict in wild banded mongooses.

The Department of Biology is recognised as one of the leading and most accomplished departments at York, with a global reputation for excellence in both teaching and research. We are committed to fostering a supportive environment where staff and students can thrive, contribute their best, and achieve their full potential. We take great pride in holding the Athena Swan Gold Award.

Role
We wish to recruit a Postdoctoral Research Associate or Fellow to participate in research on the evolution of social behaviour in animal societies. The post will be primarily based on analysis of long-term data to test theories of intergroup conflict and evolution of social behaviour. This post is available from 31 October 2026 for a fixed term of two years.

Intergroup conflict is recognised as a powerful force shaping the evolution of social behaviour in animal societies. However, its life-history and fitness consequences for individuals and groups remain poorly understood. This project will test theoretical predictions on the causes and consequences of intergroup conflict using long-term data from a wild population of banded mongooses in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda. Banded mongooses engage in frequent intergroup fights that carry substantial risks of injury and mortality. By analysing these data and testing explicit hypotheses, the project will clarify how intergroup conflict shapes social evolution. This is a scientific data analysis project that taps into vast observational and experimental data on banded mongooses to answer big questions about the evolution of social behaviour.

Skills, Experience & Qualifications Needed

• A relevant PhD (or nearing completion), or equivalent qualification/experience in a related field of study (Science, Mathematics, or Engineering).
• Demonstrated knowledge of the discipline, research methods, and techniques required to work within established research programs.
• Strong skills in the statistical analysis of ecological and behavioural data, specifically using custom Bayesian models (e.g., STAN or PyMC).
• Ability to present research progress and outcomes, and effectively communicate complex information orally, in writing, and electronically.
• Prior experience or expertise in animal behaviour research, or a similar field.

Interview date: To be confirmed.

For informal enquiries: please contact Prof Daniel Franks on daniel.franks@york.ac.uk.

The University strives to be diverse and inclusive – a place where we can ALL be ourselves.

We particularly encourage applications from people who identify as Black, Asian or from a Minority Ethnic background, who are underrepresented at the University.

We offer family friendly, flexible working arrangements, with forums and inclusive facilities to support our staff. #EqualityatYork

As a Disability Confident employer, we will ensure that a fair and proportionate number of disabled applicants that meet the minimum (essential) criteria for each position will be offered an interview. Read more about the University of York’s commitments under the Disability Confident scheme.

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