Nutritional ecology of species have been shaped by evolution and is based on the relationship between organisms and their environment. Within an individual’s lifetime, macronutrient intake plays a critical role in how organisms develop and maintain their bodies, and will shift in response to changes in physiological needs. In this project, we will study howearly life nutrition influences the development of morphology, behaviour, and physiology of animals. In particular, we are interested in understanding if variation in protein and carbohydrate ratios alter how well animals respond to future challenges. Using lizards as a model system, we will combine field measurements with controlled experiments to link nutrition, stress, and fear.

Position and responsibilities: We invite applications for the position of Postdoctoral Fellow for this Nutritional Ecology project. We will offer a one-year contract to the successful applicant. A successful applicant should be highly self-motivated, independent and enterprising, and will fulfil the following responsibilities of the position:

1. Conduct field-work to track and capture lizards (Psammophilus dorsalis) from the wild
2. Conduct experiments at the outdoor field station in Kuduregere (North Bangalore)
3. Conduct molecular analyses (genetics, barcoding, protein and carbohydrate assays)
4. Mentor students and interns working on the project
5. Data management, analysis and writing up of results for reports and manuscripts

Chief responsibilities: Run one of the experiments in the project, supervise junior researchers, and assist in data analysis and report and manuscript writing.

Funding: DBT-Wellcome Trust India Alliance project ​“Linking Nutrition to the Ecology of Fear”

Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and work experience within the range of Rs.47,000/- to Rs. 54,000/- per month + 30% HRA (in accordance with GOI PDF scales).

A Ph.D. degree in the ecological or allied sciences.

• Field experience and knowledge of capture and handling of animals (lizards, preferable).
• Experience with some wet-lab techniques (e.g. genetics, barcoding, protein assays).
• Quantitative skills, especially statistics, in R or other programming languages.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English as demonstrated by first-author scientific publications.
• Valid 4‑wheel driver’s licence.

Students without a PhD but with at least 4 years experience in ecological research, will also be considered.

Submit a cover letter (not exceeding one page) clearly conveying why you consider yourself to be a suitable candidate for this position. Please highlight your field and lab skills.

* Submit a complete CV, with the names of two referees along with their contact details.

Please email your application to Prof. Maria Thaker mthaker@​iisc.​ac.​in with the subject ​‘PDF Nutrition 2025’

Applications without this subject line or incomplete applications will not be considered. Short listed candidates will be invited for a online or in-person interview by the end of February 2025, with the position starting on 1^st April 2025.

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