Postdoc Position Birdsong Modelling

Job status Postdoc

Starting Date September 2024 or earlier if possible

Duration 24 months (renewable)

Location

Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle (Mnhn)

Umr Mecadev, Funevol team

55, rue Buffon

75005 Paris

Typical Hiring Range Full-Time job ±2500 Euro/month (net) according to MNHN salary scale.

Supervisor Pauline Provini

Context

Vocal communication is one of the most spectacular modes of interactions, especially in birds. Surprisingly, we still do not fully understand how birds produce such an extraordinary diversity of sounds and which mechanisms are involved in vocalisation: how the different parts of the vocal system move to produce sound? What is the relative role of each component? What is the structure/function relationships involved in sound production? 

In this research project, funded by an ANR JCJC grant, we are using advanced imaging methods, to directly observe and model anatomy, biomechanics, airflow, and sound propagation in the vocal tract of naturally vocalizing birds. Through modelling methods, we will link anatomical and functional diversity to trace the evolutionary processes that led to vocal diversity and deduce how vocalization promotes biodiversity in birds. It will shed light on the evolution of complex communication signals, one of the amazing characteristics we share with birds.

Job description

We are hiring a postdoc fellow to be part of a team focusing on the biomechanics of birdsong, particularly on the modelling aspects of vocalisation. The chosen applicant will play a substantive role in building static and dynamic aero-acoustic models, fed by experimental data gathered by other team members.

Main activities: 

• Develop the aero-acoustic models (static and dynamic)

• Manage the database derived from the modelling 

• Produce relevant figures and write scientific publications

• Co-supervise and train Master 2 intern associated with the project

• Actively communicate with the team and collaborators to share data and ideas

Secondary tasks:

• • Participate to the collective life of the lab

  • Present results in seminars and scientific conferences

Skills/Qualifications

Minimum qualifications:

• PhD qualification with relevant research experience in bioacoustics or a closely related field

• Skills in modelling: experience with COMSOL® and its Acoustics module, or equivalent

• Basic knowledge or willingness to learn about avian functional morphology and evolution

• Scientific writing

 Additional positive qualifications:

• Knowledge of birdsong is considered as additional positive elements for the candidate 

• An interdisciplinary background is highly appreciated

Required Documents

 Please send the following documents to pauline.provini[at]mnhn.fr:

• Curriculum Vitae

• Cover letter summarizing research interests, professional experience, and career goals

• Names and Contact Information for 2 References

🚩 Deadline to apply 12th of May 2024