IISER Mohali DBT Funded JRF Job Opening – Applications Invited

IISER Mohali DBT Funded JRF Job Opening – Applications Invited

IISER Mohali DBT Funded JRF Job Opening – Applications Invited. IISER Mohali junior research fellow job opening. Interested and eligible applicants can check out all of the details on the same below

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Application for the position of Junior Research Fellow – 1 in a DBT Project at IISER Mohali

Name of the Post: Junior Research Fellow

No. of Posts: 01

Project Titled: Sexual selection and the evolution of immune function

Project summary: The project aims to examine sexual selection and immune function in crickets. Towards this we will examine the relationship between secondary sexual characters in male crickets, immune function in crickets, female mate choice decisions and possible costs and direct/indirect benefit associated with these decisions.

No. of positions: 01

Duration: 1 year (extendable after review)

Funding Agency: Department of BioTechnology

How to Apply:

The application must be sent by email ONLY.

Email should be sent to [email protected] with the subject: ‘Application for JRF’

The application package should contain:

1. A cover letter stating why you are a suitable candidate (maximum 300 words)
2. Detailed CV (containing complete academic details and relevant experience)
3. Copies of academic credentials (marksheet and degree)
4. Certificate of qualifying exam
5. Name and contact of at least two referees.

All this must be sent in a single file in .pdf form.

If required, shortlisted candidates may be asked to appear for an interview (in person or online). Please note that no TA/DA will be paid if the interview is conducted in person.

Deadline: Applications will be accepted till August 10th 2023.

Emolument: As per DBT norms.

Eligibility: 

• M.Sc. or equivalent degree in any discipline of Science or Engineering. Candidate should have cleared any national-level exam conducted by a central government department and their agencies such as DST, DBT, CSIR, UGC, IIT, ICMR etc (exams such as GATE, CSIR-UGC Net including lectureship etc.).
• Candidates with experience in ecology/evolution/behaviour/immunology/entomology will be preferred. The project has both fieldwork and lab-based experimental work. The fieldwork will be conducted during night time as the project is on nocturnal insects and will be physically demanding. So, it is critical that the candidate is highly motivated and can handle working both in field and in lab and can work with diverse team members.

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Here are some sample interview questions and answers for the position of Junior Research Fellow -1 (JRF) in the DBT project :

1. Question: Can you briefly explain the project’s title and its objectives? Answer: The project titled “Sexual selection and the evolution of immune function” aims to investigate the relationship between secondary sexual characters in male crickets, immune function in crickets, female mate choice decisions, and the potential costs and benefits associated with these decisions. By studying these aspects, we hope to gain insights into the interplay between sexual selection and immune function in nocturnal insects.

2. Question: What relevant experience do you have in the fields of ecology, evolution, behaviour, immunology, or entomology? Answer: During my M.Sc. (or equivalent) studies, I focused on courses and research projects that were directly related to ecology, evolution, behaviour, or immunology. I have worked on projects involving fieldwork, laboratory experiments, and data analysis related to these areas. Additionally, I have actively participated in workshops and seminars to expand my knowledge in these fields.

3. Question: The project involves both fieldwork and lab-based experimental work. How do you handle physically demanding tasks and work in diverse team settings? Answer: I have prior experience handling physically demanding fieldwork, which has taught me to be resilient and adaptive in challenging conditions. Moreover, my academic and research experiences have involved collaboration with diverse team members, and I understand the importance of effective communication and teamwork. I believe that my motivation, adaptability, and willingness to collaborate will allow me to excel in this project’s interdisciplinary environment.

4. Question: How would you approach studying the relationship between secondary sexual characters and immune function in male crickets? Answer: To study the relationship between secondary sexual characters and immune function in male crickets, I would conduct a combination of field observations and laboratory experiments. In the field, I would carefully observe and record male cricket displays, behaviors, and interactions with females. In the lab, I would collect samples for immunological analyses and assess immune responses in male crickets with varying secondary sexual traits. By correlating these data, we can gain valuable insights into how sexual selection may influence immune function.

5. Question: The project also mentions female mate choice decisions. How would you design experiments to study this aspect? Answer: To study female mate choice decisions, I would design choice experiments where female crickets are presented with males exhibiting different secondary sexual traits. I would carefully record the females’ responses, such as their preference for certain traits or mating behaviors. Additionally, I would examine female reproductive success and fitness outcomes when mating with males possessing different traits. By combining behavioral observations with reproductive success data, we can understand the role of female mate choice in the context of sexual selection and immune function.

6. Question: How would you contribute to the project’s success during your tenure as a Junior Research Fellow? Answer: As a Junior Research Fellow, I would bring my strong academic background in relevant disciplines and my prior research experience to the project. I am highly motivated to explore the complex interplay between sexual selection and immune function in crickets. I will work diligently both in the field and in the lab, ensuring accurate data collection and analysis. Additionally, I am eager to collaborate with fellow researchers, share insights, and actively contribute to the project’s findings and publications.

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