Job Title: Assistant Professor position in Evolutionary Adaptation in the Anthropocene Are you passionate about research and teaching, and would you like to work in a multidisciplinary team in the field of evolution and ecology? Please apply at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. Location: AMSTERDAM, The Netherlands FTE: 0.8 - 1 Job description 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. 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. We ask candidates to write a concise research statement (max. 1 pages) that identifies and presents how their research plans will contribute to the research portfolio of the department in general, and the section Ecology and Evolution in particular. In addition, we ask candidates to provide a concise teaching statement (also 1 pages max.) reflecting on their teaching vision and how they will contribute to the teaching tasks of the department. 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. REQUIREMENTS - Ph.D. 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. 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. From forest fires to big data, from obesity to malnutrition, from helium to the universe and from genetics to medicine: our education and research cover the full breadth of science, from molecules to mankind. Our academic education and research are highly experimental, technical, and interdisciplinary in nature. That is why we collaborate extensively with leading scientific institutes and industry. The faculty has more than 8,000 students studying in one of the 39 programs and employs more than 1,400 staff across 10 scientific departments, making us one of the largest science faculties in the Netherlands. 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 the planet. Together we create a safe and respectful working and study climate, and an inspiring environment for education and research. Learn more about our codes of conduct We are located on one physical campus, in the heart of Amsterdam's Zuidas business district, with excellent location and accessibility. Over 6,150 staff work at the VU and over 31,000 students attend academic education. Diversity Diversity is the driving force of VU Amsterdam. VU wants to be accessible and receptive to diversity in disciplines, cultures, ideas, nationalities, beliefs, preferences, and worldviews. We believe that trust, respect, interest and differences lead to new insights and innovation, to sharpness and clarity, to excellence and a broader understanding. We stand for an inclusive community and believe that diversity and internationalization contribute to the quality of education, research, and our services. Therefore, we are always searching for people whose backgrounds and experiences contribute to the diversity of the VU community. To apply, submit a cover letter, CV, research statement (max 1 page), a teaching statement (max 1 page), and names and contact information for three references by 4 November via https://workingat.vu.nl/vacancies/assistant-professor-position-in-evolutionary-adaptation-in-the-anthropocene-amsterdam-1345892. References will be contacted for letters of recommendation. (to manage your EvolDir subscription: https://evoldir.net/django/subscriptions/manage/)