Postdoctoral Research Associate

University of Exeter - Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Exeter Medical School

Placed On: 5th January 2026

Closes: 2nd February 2026

Job Ref: Q11102

This new full-time post is available from 1 April 2026 on a fixed term basis until 31 March 2029.

This role may be subject to additional background screening.

We welcome applications from candidates interested in working part-time hours or job-sharing arrangements.

The post

The Faculty wishes to recruit a Postdoctoral Research Associate to support the work of Prof Darren Croft. This NERC-funded post, in collaboration with Dr Samuel Ellis at the University of Exeter, Prof Rufus Johnstone at the University of Cambridge, and Dr Michael Weiss at the Center for Whale Research (USA), is available from 1 April 2026 for a period of three years. The successful applicant will join a collaborative interdisciplinary team investigating the evolution of social ageing across mammals, with a particular focus on the critically endangered Southern Resident killer whales. This project will use a unique 50-year dataset on this population, alongside comparative data from other mammalian societies, to understand how and why patterns of social connectedness change with age, and to develop and test an adaptive framework for social ageing.

The PDRA will play a central role in delivering the project, working closely with the Center for Whale Research (USA) and other partners. Responsibilities will include: (1) develop and apply statistical models to test hypotheses about how individuals allocate social effort across the lifespan, and how these patterns are shaped by kinship structure, sex, and life-history strategy; (2) integrate long-term demographic and social network data to quantify patterns of social ageing within and between individuals; (3) compare empirical findings with theoretical predictions from models of adaptive social investment and social aging in killer whales and other species; (4) interpret the implications of social ageing for population resilience and conservation of the endangered Southern Resident killer whales; and (5) disseminate results through high-impact academic publications, conference presentations, and public engagement related to ageing, sociality, and conservation.

This position offers an exciting opportunity to work at the interface of evolutionary ecology, ageing, and data science, addressing fundamental questions about the evolution of social behaviour while providing insights directly relevant to the conservation and resilience of an iconic, endangered population.

About you

The successful applicant will hold a PhD (or equivalent qualification/experience) in behavioural ecology, animal behaviour, conservation biology, or a related discipline. They will have specialist knowledge and quantitative skills to design and implement advanced research programmes, analyse complex datasets, and develop innovative methodologies.

The successful applicant will be able to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a multi-institutional team, supervise the work of others, and take on leadership responsibilities where appropriate. They will have excellent communication skills, with the ability to present research findings clearly in oral, written, and electronic formats.

The successful applicant will be motivated, adaptable, and committed to producing high-quality research that advances our understanding of animal social behaviour and contributes directly to the conservation of an endangered species.

Please ensure you read the Job Description and Person Specification for full details of this role.

Further information

For further information please contact Darren Croft, Professor of Animal Behaviour.