Master thesis topic: prey chemical defences and predator physiology, University of Jyväskylä

We have a Master thesis topic available at the University of Jyväskylä, Finland, in the research project led by Dr. Liisa Hämäläinen. In our research, we are interested in predator-prey coevolution, and the project investigates interactions between avian predators and chemically defended prey.

Many insects have evolved chemical defences against avian predators but the physiological costs associated with ingesting prey toxins remain poorly understood. The Master student would use wild great tits as model predators to investigate physiological changes (oxidative stress) caused by prey toxins. This includes laboratory analyses of bird blood samples and an opportunity to participate in experiments with wild great tits (diet manipulation and behavioural assays with captive birds or fieldwork with chicks in nest boxes).

– Required skills: interest in predator-prey interactions, evolutionary biology, physiology and/or microbiology, some laboratory experience
– Learning opportunities: laboratory analyses, statistics, writing, possibility to conduct experiments with wild birds
– Schedule: Lab analyses anytime in 2025, bird experiments in Jan-Feb (diet manipulation and behavioural assays) or April-May 2025 (nest boxes)
– Supervisors: Liisa Hämäläinen, Christopher Irving

TO APPLY:
Contact Liisa Hämäläinen: liisa.l.hamalainen@jyu.fi
We are also open to other projects and internships – ask more!

About the Department of Biological and Environmental Science, University of Jyväskylä:
The research in the Department of Biological and Environmental Science focuses on three core areas: evolutionary biology, natural resources and environment, and biological nanoscience. The department houses high quality laboratories for bioscience and experimental facilities for a wide range of biological and chemical analyses as well as highly motivated laboratory personnel. The University of Jyväskylä is a human-centered environment of 2,500 experts and 14,500 students. Our goal is to create wisdom and wellbeing for all. JYU’s naturally beautiful campus is located in the heart of the city of Jyväskylä. JYU is the third largest employer in Central Finland.