The past decade has been dominated by advances in cell and molecular biology. We have learned much about the chemical and physiological function of single cells and cell organelles. We have also learned that this information, in and of itself, does not begin to elucidate the physiological processes that emerge as cells aggregate to form tissues, organs and organ systems. It has become apparent that the major challenge facing biologists in the next several decades will be:
u to elucidate how the cells of multi-cellular organisms co-operate to produce the characteristics we associate with Life
u to utilize this information to understand how these processes are modified to allow animals to utilize different niches and survive in different environments, this is the true basis of biodiversity
u to elucidate how these different processes have evolved and understand the mechanisms that have produced such diversity
To this end we are proposing positions in either of these areas.
Integrative and Comparative
Physiology
Among the characteristics that define life is the ability of organisms to process energy, grow, develop and reproduce. To spearhead efforts to integrate research in these areas from the biochemical and cell level to the ecosystem level will require a senior scientist with a broad background and sweeping vision. This individual will need to excite, co-ordinate and focus junior researchers at disparate ends of the biological hierarchy and manage the type of collaborative effort that will lead to hallmark advances in the next decade. They must be familiar and comfortable with the tools being used across this spectrum and able to construct effective collaborations between individuals with different interests.
Evolutionary Physiology