Postdoctoral Position on Acoustic Camouflage in Moths

University of Ghent

Location: Leiden, Netherlands

Postdoctoral position on acoustic camouflage in moths

Supervisors: Dr. Matthew D. Shawkey1, Dr. Liliana D’Alba1,2
1Evolution and Optics of Nanostructures (EON) Group, Department of Biology
University of Ghent, Belgium and 2Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Leiden, Netherlands

https://www.eongent.net

Deadline: December 15, 2023, or until a suitable candidate is found

A fully-funded postdoctoral position acoustic camouflage in moths is available in the Evolution and Optics of Nanostructures (EON) group at the University of Ghent, Belgium and Naturalis Biodiversity Center in Leiden, Netherlands, in collaboration with the Free University of Amsterdam, Netherlands.

Camouflage is a cost-effective way to escape a predator’s attention and has been widely studied, albeit mainly in the visual domain. Most moths are, however, night-active and therefore mainly need to defend themselves against bats hunting by sound, specifically through echolocation. To escape detection, moths may consequently have evolved scales on body and wings for acoustic camouflage, as these microstructures can in some species absorb ultrasound. However, little is known of how these diverse scales produce their remarkable effect.

The central aim of this project is therefore to identify form-function relationships of scales and scale assemblages producing acoustic camouflage. In collaboration with EON, and Dr. WouterHalfwerk’s group in Amsterdam, the postdoc will measure morphological properties of different classes of body and wing scales and model their sound absorptive or scattering capacities and mechanisms of function. They will then test form-function hypotheses via biomimicry, producing both analogues that directly mimic, and extend the variation in, scale morphology.

The postdoc will use electron, optical, and atomic force microscopy, acoustic measurements and modeling, and 3D replication/prototyping techniques. Experience with any or all of these techniques will be viewed favourably but is not essential. We encourage anyone with an interest in multidisciplinary research to apply, including those trained in fields outside biology. The position will be based in Ghent, but will involve some time in Leiden and Amsterdam. Most of the work will be lab-based, but there is potential for some fieldwork trapping moths in Europe or Panama.

Contract and Salary: The initial appointment will be for one year, with the possibility of extension for two additional years. Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience.

Eligibility: Open to all nationalities. A PhD in any field of science (preferably Biology, Physics, or Materials Science) is required by the time of admission. Experience in scientific research is required. Proficiency with the English language (both written and spoken) is required, and familiarity with Dutch (or a willingness to learn) is advantageous.

Location: The University of Ghent is a large research-oriented university that is consistently ranked within the top 100 Universities worldwide. The Department of Biology has broad research expertise with an active community of faculty, post-docs and students. EON is a group of fourpost-docs, two PhD students and two PI’s that values cooperation and collaboration as well as independence. Ghent is a beautiful small city in the heart of Europe that combines medieval architecture with a thriving arts and food scene.

How to apply: Please apply here: https://jobs.ugent.be/job/Ghent-Postdoctoral-fellow-9000/782969502. You can also contact Dr. Matthew Shawkey (matthew.shawkey@ugent.be) with any questions.

 

Tenure Track Scientist-Ocean Acoustics

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI)

Location: Woods Hole, MA

Tenure Track Scientist – AOPE – Ocean Acoustics

The Department of Applied Ocean Physics and Engineering at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) invites candidates to apply to the open full-time tenure track position on our scientific staff*. We seek to hire 1-2 scientists at any of the Assistant/Associate/Senior Scientist levels in the area ofOcean Acoustics with the potential to complement or diversify existing strengths and become the next wave of ocean acoustics leadership.

Of interest are all aspects of fundamental and applied ocean acoustics.

We seek broad-thinking applicants committed to developing a vigorous sea-going program involving innovative technologies and sustainable ocean observing solutions. We envision acoustics as being a keystone component in making the oceans more transparent and connected, with implications for sustainable ocean resources, observatory infrastructure, resiliency, national defense, climate, environmental stewardship, and marine policy. The ideal candidate will develop a research program that contributes significantly to the WHOI Vision 2030, which envisions a decade of institutional investment in excellence, innovation, and global engagement. We seek individuals utilizing and developing state-of-the-art technology to provide fundamental scientific advances on the ocean and its connection with the Earth system and inform use-inspired outcomes. We invite expansive interpretations of our research, teaching, and scholarly pursuits and welcome interdisciplinary approaches.

WHOI is located on Cape Cod in Woods Hole, Massachusetts, a world-renowned center of excellence in marine, biomedical, and environmental science, with proximity to the research hubs of Boston, MA and Providence, RI. Its mission is to advance our understanding of the ocean and its interaction with the Earth system, and to communicate this understanding for the benefit of society. WHOI is the largest private, non-profit oceanographic institution in the world, with staff and students numbering approximately 1,000. Together with an additional ~500 affiliated personnel associated with the scientific endeavors of the Institution, WHOI is home to a vibrant scientific community that has a strong international component. 

WHOI offers a comprehensive benefit package that includes but is not limited to relocation assistance, medical and dental plans, childcare subsidy, housing assistance, tuition assistance, an employer contribution retirement plan, vacation time, flexible scheduling, and family illness days. 

*Tenure-track staff are positions equivalent to ladder-rank professorial posts and tenure-track group leader positions. 

Essential Functions

WHOI Scientific Staff members develop externally-funded and internationally recognized research programs. Many also advise graduate students and teach courses in the MIT/WHOI Joint Program in Oceanography/Applied Ocean Science and Engineering. Scientific Staff also have access to significant internal funding opportunities, including exciting new directions through WHOI’s Vision 2030 Initiative. These internal funding opportunities ensure that all scientists have full salary support. Newly hired Scientific Staff receive start-up packages as they develop their independent research portfolios. Scientific Staff are encouraged (although not required) to embark on interdisciplinary and entrepreneurial ventures as well as develop collaborations within the Institution, its various Centers, and the Woods Hole community.   

Applications from members of underrepresented groups and non-traditional backgrounds are encouraged. The Institution is committed to supporting a diverse and inclusive workplace and welcomes individuals who have demonstrated a commitment to providing leadership, in scholarship or service, toward building an equitable and diverse scholarly environment.

Education & Experience

Applicants should have a doctoral degree and a record of scholarly contributions (publications and/or other products) commensurate with their career stage with consideration taken for productivity or trajectory-impacting life circumstances.

Special Requirements

Please visit http://careers.whoi.edu and respond to Job Reference 2023-2174. Applicants need to 1) upload their curriculum vitae to the corresponding section of the application and 2) upload to the “Cover Letter” section of the application a single PDF document containing the following information, in respective order: a cover letter, curriculum vitae, three-page research statement, one-page diversity statement, names and contact information of four references, copies of up to three relevant publications or preprints, and optional one-page life-impact statement.  

The research statement should include their research background and plans for building an independent research program at WHOI and should speak to the significance and long-term goals of their research. The diversity statement should discuss or include their past and/or potential contributions to and experience with diversity, equity and inclusion, such as mentoring, committee service, research, outreach, or teaching. The life-impact statement should discuss any significant life circumstance that has impacted their productivity, trajectory, or performance (e.g., COVID-19 pandemic, illness, caretaking responsibilities; 1-page). To be fair to all candidates, any statements that exceed page length requirements will be truncated at the specified page limit before review.  

Application deadline: December 31, 2023 

WHOI is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. WHOI believes diversity, equity, and inclusion are essential components that support our academic excellence. We strive for a diverse and inclusive workforce, and encourage women, minorities, veterans and those with disabilities to apply. All qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.  We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements.  

Physical Requirements

Further details of the physical requirements of established essential functions for this position will be addressed/discussed during the interview process.  We welcome all interested parties to apply! 

WHOI is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer/Disabled/Veterans/M/F. We encourage Veterans and those with Disabilities to apply. Applications are reviewed confidentially. Applicants that require accommodation in the job application process are encouraged to contact us at (508) 289-2253 or email eeo@whoi.edu for assistance.

 

Tenure Track Scientist-Sensing, Robotics and Machine Learning

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI)

Location:  Woods Hole, MA

Tenure Track Scientist – AOPE – Sensing, Robotics, and Machine Learning

The Department of Applied Ocean Physics and Engineering at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) invites candidates to apply to the open full-time tenure track position on our scientific staff*. We seek to hire 1-2 scientists at any of the Assistant/Associate/Senior Scientist levels to develop research programs focused on remote/in-situ sensing, field robotics, machine learning and related areas with applications to marine environments.

The ideal candidate will develop a research program that contributes significantly to the WHOI Vision 2030, which envisions a decade of institutional investment in excellence, innovation, and global engagement. We seek individuals utilizing and developing state-of-the-art technology to provide fundamental scientific advances on the ocean and its connection with the Earth system and inform use-inspired outcomes. We invite expansive interpretations of our research, teaching, and scholarly pursuits and welcome interdisciplinary approaches.

WHOI is located on Cape Cod in Woods Hole, Massachusetts, a world-renowned center of excellence in marine, biomedical, and environmental science, with proximity to the research hubs of Boston, MA and Providence, RI. Its mission is to advance our understanding of the ocean and its interaction with the Earth system, and to communicate this understanding for the benefit of society. WHOI is the largest private, non-profit oceanographic institution in the world, with staff and students numbering approximately 1,000. Together with an additional ~500 affiliated personnel associated with the scientific endeavors of the Institution, WHOI is home to a vibrant scientific community that has a strong international component. 

WHOI offers a comprehensive benefit package that includes but is not limited to relocation assistance, medical and dental plans, childcare subsidy, housing assistance, tuition assistance, an employer contribution retirement plan, vacation time, flexible scheduling, and family illness days. 

*Tenure-track staff are positions equivalent to ladder-rank professorial posts and tenure-track group leader positions. 

Essential Functions

WHOI Scientific Staff members develop externally-funded and internationally recognized research programs. Many also advise graduate students and teach courses in the MIT/WHOI Joint Program in Oceanography/Applied Ocean Science and Engineering. Scientific Staff also have access to significant internal funding opportunities, including exciting new directions through WHOI’s Vision 2030 Initiative. These internal funding opportunities ensure that all scientists have full salary support. Newly hired Scientific Staff receive start-up packages as they develop their independent research portfolios. Scientific Staff are encouraged (although not required) to embark on interdisciplinary and entrepreneurial ventures as well as develop collaborations within the Institution, its various Centers, and the Woods Hole community.   

Applications from members of underrepresented groups and non-traditional backgrounds are encouraged. The Institution is committed to supporting a diverse and inclusive workplace and welcomes individuals who have demonstrated a commitment to providing leadership, in scholarship or service, toward building an equitable and diverse scholarly environment.

Education & Experience

Applicants should have a doctoral degree and a record of scholarly contributions (publications and/or other products) commensurate with their career stage with consideration taken for productivity or trajectory-impacting life circumstances.

Special Requirements

Please visit http://careers.whoi.edu and respond to Job Reference 2023-2176. Applicants need to 1) upload their curriculum vitae to the corresponding section of the application and 2) upload to the “Cover Letter” section of the application a single PDF document containing the following information, in respective order: a cover letter, curriculum vitae, three-page research statement, one-page diversity statement, names and contact information of four references, copies of up to three relevant publications or preprints, and optional one-page life-impact statement.  

The research statement should include their research background and plans for building an independent research program at WHOI and should speak to the significance and long-term goals of their research. The diversity statement should discuss or include their past and/or potential contributions to and experience with diversity, equity and inclusion, such as mentoring, committee service, research, outreach, or teaching. The life-impact statement should discuss any significant life circumstance that has impacted their productivity, trajectory, or performance (e.g., COVID-19 pandemic, illness, caretaking responsibilities; 1-page). To be fair to all candidates, any statements that exceed page length requirements will be truncated at the specified page limit before review.  

Application deadline: December 31, 2023

WHOI is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. WHOI believes diversity, equity, and inclusion are essential components that support our academic excellence. We strive for a diverse and inclusive workforce, and encourage women, minorities, veterans and those with disabilities to apply. All qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.  We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements.  

Physical Requirements

Further details of the physical requirements of established essential functions for this position will be addressed/discussed during the interview process.  We welcome all interested parties to apply!

WHOI is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer/Disabled/Veterans/M/F. We encourage Veterans and those with Disabilities to apply. Applications are reviewed confidentially. Applicants that require accommodation in the job application process are encouraged to contact us at (508) 289-2253 or email eeo@whoi.edu for assistance.

 

Tenure Track Scientist-Applied Ocean Physics

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI)

Location: Woods Hole, MA

Tenure Track Scientist – AOPE – Applied Ocean Physics

The Department of Applied Ocean Physics and Engineering at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) invites candidates to apply to the open full-time tenure track position on our scientific staff*. We seek to hire 1-2 scientists at any of the Assistant/Associate/Senior Scientist levels.

We are seeking candidates with potential to complement or diversify existing strengths in applied ocean physics, including but not limited to coastal and estuarine dynamics, physical-biological interactions at organism to oceanographic scales, polar processes, remote sensing, groundwater dynamics, and air-sea interaction.

The ideal candidate will develop a research program that contributes significantly to the WHOI Vision 2030, which envisions a decade of institutional investment in excellence, innovation, and global engagement. We seek individuals utilizing and developing state-of-the-art technology to provide fundamental scientific advances on the ocean and its connection with the Earth system and inform use-inspired outcomes. We invite expansive interpretations of our research, teaching, and scholarly pursuits and welcome interdisciplinary approaches.

WHOI is located on Cape Cod in Woods Hole, Massachusetts, a world-renowned center of excellence in marine, biomedical, and environmental science, with proximity to the research hubs of Boston, MA and Providence, RI. Its mission is to advance our understanding of the ocean and its interaction with the Earth system, and to communicate this understanding for the benefit of society. WHOI is the largest private, non-profit oceanographic institution in the world, with staff and students numbering approximately 1,000. Together with an additional ~500 affiliated personnel associated with the scientific endeavors of the Institution, WHOI is home to a vibrant scientific community that has a strong international component. 

WHOI offers a comprehensive benefit package that includes but is not limited to relocation assistance, medical and dental plans, childcare subsidy, housing assistance, tuition assistance, an employer contribution retirement plan, vacation time, flexible scheduling, and family illness days. 

*Tenure-track staff are positions equivalent to ladder-rank professorial posts and tenure-track group leader positions. 

Essential Functions

WHOI Scientific Staff members develop externally-funded and internationally recognized research programs. Many also advise graduate students and teach courses in the MIT/WHOI Joint Program in Oceanography/Applied Ocean Science and Engineering. Scientific Staff also have access to significant internal funding opportunities, including exciting new directions through WHOI’s Vision 2030 Initiative. These internal funding opportunities ensure that all scientists have full salary support. Newly hired Scientific Staff receive start-up packages as they develop their independent research portfolios. Scientific Staff are encouraged (although not required) to embark on interdisciplinary and entrepreneurial ventures as well as develop collaborations within the Institution, its various Centers, and the Woods Hole community.   

Applications from members of underrepresented groups and non-traditional backgrounds are encouraged. The Institution is committed to supporting a diverse and inclusive workplace and welcomes individuals who have demonstrated a commitment to providing leadership, in scholarship or service, toward building an equitable and diverse scholarly environment.

Education & Experience

Applicants should have a doctoral degree and a record of scholarly contributions (publications and/or other products) commensurate with their career stage with consideration taken for productivity or trajectory-impacting life circumstances.

Special Requirements

Please visit http://careers.whoi.edu and respond to Job Reference 2023-2175. Applicants need to 1) upload their curriculum vitae to the corresponding section of the application and 2) upload to the “Cover Letter” section of the application a single PDF document containing the following information, in respective order: a cover letter, curriculum vitae, three-page research statement, one-page diversity statement, names and contact information of four references, copies of up to three relevant publications or preprints, and optional one-page life-impact statement.  

The research statement should include their research background and plans for building an independent research program at WHOI and should speak to the significance and long-term goals of their research. The diversity statement should discuss or include their past and/or potential contributions to and experience with diversity, equity and inclusion, such as mentoring, committee service, research, outreach, or teaching. The life-impact statement should discuss any significant life circumstance that has impacted their productivity, trajectory, or performance (e.g., COVID-19 pandemic, illness, caretaking responsibilities; 1-page). To be fair to all candidates, any statements that exceed page length requirements will be truncated at the specified page limit before review.  

Application deadline: December 31, 2023 

WHOI is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. WHOI believes diversity, equity, and inclusion are essential components that support our academic excellence. We strive for a diverse and inclusive workforce, and encourage women, minorities, veterans and those with disabilities to apply. All qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.  We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements.  

Physical Requirements

Further details of the physical requirements of established essential functions for this position will be addressed/discussed during the interview process.  We welcome all interested parties to apply! 

WHOI is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer/Disabled/Veterans/M/F. We encourage Veterans and those with Disabilities to apply. Applications are reviewed confidentially. Applicants that require accommodation in the job application process are encouraged to contact us at (508) 289-2253 or email eeo@whoi.edu for assistance.

 

 

Director of the National Center for Physical Acoustics

University of Mississippi

Location: Oxford, MS

The University of Mississippi (UM) Oxford campus is seeking an outstanding candidate to serve as Director of the National Center for Physical Acoustics (NCPA).

Reporting to the Vice Chancellor for Research and Sponsored Programs, the Director's scope of responsibilities includes: strategic planning and management of a multi-million dollar externally funded acoustics research program, representing the NCPA to internal and external stakeholders, facilitating a collegial and productive environment among the approximately 40 full time faculty, staff, and students, promoting collaborative research efforts between the laboratory and various UM academic departments, and overseeing the day to day operations of the lab. The incumbent is expected to maintain an active role as a leading scientist in a field that is central to the NCPA mission through the continued development of his/her own vigorous basic and/or applied research program.

An earned PhD in Physics, Engineering, Geophysical Sciences, or a related field, is required, as well as a documented history of research and leadership success in physical acoustics, demonstrated experience in leadership and administration, and a proven track record of generating external funding. The candidates must be able to obtain and maintain a U.S. Department of Defense Security Clearance.

Any questions regarding this position should be directed to Dr. Greg Easson, Interim Vice Chancellor for Research and Sponsored Programs at geasson@olemiss.edu. To apply see https://careers.olemiss.edu/.

About NCPA: The NCPA facility opened 1989 and consists of over 80,000 sq. ft of lab and office space located on the main campus of the University. The Center is an internationally recognized leader in acoustics research and development with prominent scientists across our many specialties. The University of Mississippi has an R-1 Carnegie designation which identifies it as among the top-tier research institutions in the US. The University is located in Oxford, MS, which is often listed among the top college towns in the US.

Acoustical Consultant

Acoustical Consultant

Design 27 is seeking an Acoustical Consultant to join our growing team. The successful candidate should have a minimum of three years of experience in acoustics and noise control acoustics. The position will serve as the primary acoustical consultant on various projects in the markets of education, healthcare, corporate and hospitality. Typical spaces include auditoriums, office environments, gymnasiums, and healthcare facilities. The selected individual should have a Bachelor’s or Master’s in acoustics, architectural engineering, physics, or related field.

The selected individual will work within our team of designers and consultants to address a range of acoustical issues with the appropriate solutions. This includes room acoustics, sound isolation, HVAC system noise, and environmental acoustics. The position will require preparation of reports, utilization of acoustic modeling software, and perform on-site acoustical testing when needed. We routinely have multiple projects running at various phases so the ability to manage numerous projects simultaneously is required.

Responsibilities:

• Collaboration with our architectural clients and the overall design team on various projects.
• Leading projects involving environmental noise assessments, noise mitigation design, and acoustical specification.
• Create clear and concise documentation to support acoustical solutions that are developed.
• Produce budgetary models to support the recommended solutions for architect/owner consideration.
• Review product submittals and shop drawings.
• Ability to meet deadlines and project phases.
• Develop solid acoustical recommendations to address the issues related to a specific project.
• Conduct on-site acoustical testing and noise surveys when needed.

Qualifications:

• Solid understanding of the fundamentals of acoustics and noise control is required. Knowledge of and experience in environmental acoustics/noise assessments is preferred.
• Experience with acoustical modeling software and technical tools to support acoustics/noise analyses and recommendations.
• Familiarity with acoustic measurement practices, software, and instrumentation.
• Experience reviewing local, state, and federal environmental regulations and permitting requirements.
• A minimum of three years’ experience as a consultant in architectural acoustics or a related field is preferred.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in engineering, architectural acoustics, physics or related field of study.
• Experience with providing acoustical solutions that address sound isolation, room acoustics, HVAC system noise, etc.
• The ability to manage client expectations and relationships.
• Excellent verbal and written skills are required.
• Basic knowledge of audio/visual systems or experience with AV systems design is a plus.

If you feel you have the qualifications and motivation to be a key contributor to our success, we are interested in hearing from you. Please submit a cover letter, resume and salary requirements. We would like to bring someone on board as soon as possible.

Salary dependent upon experience and other attributes. We offer an excellent benefit package and expense reimbursements. Additionally, we provide ongoing training opportunities that impact overall performance, industry knowledge and future career growth.

Design 27 provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.

About:

Design 27 is an independent technology design and acoustical engineering firm creating engaged facilities. We have completed planning and design of information and communication technology needs that address very diverse requirements of corporate clients, research & clinical facilities, educational institutions, and critical information agencies.

Design 27 works as an advocate for the owner on each project engagement. Our approach is vendor/manufacturer independence focused on providing solutions that are specific and unique to each client and the end users’ experience. This has resulted in numerous successful projects focusing on workplace, education, healthcare, and civic engagements.

We are designers. We are consultants. We are passionate users and researchers of the rapidly changing fields of technology and acoustics along with the impact it plays in our learning environments, workplaces, public gathering spaces and beyond.

Salary based on experience.

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Professional development assistance
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Please submit resume and cover letter to Adam Weber, Partner at adam@design27.com

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