Serrapilheira offers training in biology and ecology.

Ecóloga Hanna Kokko, da Universidade de Zurique, é uma das professoras confirmadas no curso

Applications are open until April 13th for the second edition of the Training Program in Quantitative Biology and Ecology. The course is offered by the Serrapilheira Institute in partnership with the South American Institute for Fundamental Research (ICTP-SAIFR). The program is aimed at students in the pre-doctoral stages and aims to prepare future scientists for research in life sciences with a focus on the use of mathematics, physics, and computer science.

Students will learn about quantitative methods for solving advanced questions in biology and ecology. Professors will cover topics ranging from modern genetics to community ecology. The long-term goal is to create a generation of highly qualified young scientists capable of addressing the challenges in the field.

“Biology and ecology are strategic fields for the sustainable development of Brazil that should benefit from mathematical, physical, and computational techniques, since knowing how to coexist sustainably with biodiversity implies a deep understanding of complex biological systems. We want to increase the number of people trained in these areas to create a powerful network of scientists dedicated to strategic issues for Brazil,” stated the CEO of the Serrapilheira Institute, Hugo Aguilaniu.

In this edition, the course will be in-person, divided into an introductory and an advanced module, lasting five months, full-time, at the ICTP-SAIFR facilities in São Paulo. The training also includes activities such as research seminars, debate sessions, and journal clubs . The idea is that, upon completion, students will be qualified to compete for positions in centers of excellence in research in Brazil or abroad.

The program is aimed at individuals who graduated by June 2022 in any field of study. Those currently pursuing or who have already completed a master's degree are also eligible. Research experience in the field of biological sciences is desirable, but not mandatory, and fluency in English is essential. Familiarity with differential and integral calculus is also required.Click here to access the call for applications.