PhD Student in Evolutionary Genomics

Description:

PhD Student in Evolutionary Genomics The Department of Ecology and Genetics (IEG) is part of the Evolutionary Biology Centre (EBC), a dynamic and internationally recognized center for evolutionary biological and ecological research. IEG comprises research groups working at all levels of biological organization (from molecules to ecosystems) and with several different study systems (plants, animals, fungi, bacteria). The Program for Plant Ecology and Evolution, where the doctoral position is located, houses nine research groups focusing on genomics, adaptation and speciation, as well as community ecology. Researchers have access to state-of-the-art greenhouses and climate-controlled facilities, modern molecular biology laboratories, and a high-performance computing cluster (UPPMAX). The Department works closely with the national infrastructure SciLifeLab. Brief project description: Sex ratios and the evolution of sex chromosomes Sex chromosomes are of fundamental importance in biology, but our understanding of their evolution remains limited. Genetic conflicts, such as meiotic drive affecting sex ratios, have long been linked to the rapid evolution of sex chromosomes and may thus contribute to divergence and speciation. This project studies a plant genus, willows (Salix), which are dioecious. Within Salix, a biased sex ratio favoring females is common and high turnover of sex chromosomes has been described. (More description of the project is available on Uppsala University's website, https://uu.se/jobb/) In this doctoral project, you will conduct research on some of the most fascinating questions in evolutionary biology: how sex chromosomes evolve and what determines sex ratios in natural populations. You will work with advanced methods in population genomics, bioinformatics and modeling, and, to a lesser extent, also with experiments in growth chambers and in the molecular biology laboratory. As a doctoral student, you will participate in a customized course program that supports your scientific and academic development and strengthens your teaching skills. For those interested, there are good opportunities to participate in teaching. Qualification Requirements Eligible for doctoral level education is someone who has completed a degree at the advanced level in biology with specialization in evolutionary biology, population genetics/genomics, bioinformatics or a related field. You are also welcome to apply if you are expected to complete your degree shortly. Please explain this in your application. has completed at least 240 higher education credits, of which at least 60 higher education credits at advanced level including an independent project of at least 15 higher education credits, or has acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way. Eligible applicants must be able to demonstrate skills in evolutionary biology and advanced population genomics. Applicants should also have the ability and interest to work in a team, while being able to work and contribute independently. Applicants must be able to express themselves very well both orally and in writing in English. In evaluating candidates, special weight will be given to personal qualities such as independence, strong motivation and good teamwork skills. Merits Previous experience with population genomic modeling (e.g., SLiM), analysis of structural variants from long-read data, and population genomic analyses (WGS) are advantageous—these techniques will be needed in the project. Education or previous participation in research on sex ratios, evolution of sex chromosomes, structural variation, selfish genetic elements, meiotic drive or related topics is an advantage. At least a smaller part of the doctoral project will include molecular laboratory work and experiments with plants (willow species). If you have previous experience with these methods, that is good, but it is not necessary; however, we expect candidates to be interested in learning these practical skills. Although the project has a preliminary plan with funding from the Swedish Research Council, the various parts of the project will be revised and further developed based on current progress and results. We expect the doctoral student to take an active role in the project's development! About the Position The position is fixed-term according to the Higher Education Ordinance 5 ch § 7. Full-time. Start date September 1, 2026, or during fall 2026 by agreement. Location: Uppsala Regulations for doctoral students are found in the Higher Education Ordinance 5 ch §§ 1-7 and in the University's rules and guidelines. Information about the position and the project is provided by: Prof. Sophie Karrenberg, [email protected], +46 76 820 7578 In this recruitment, we have replaced the cover letter with questions that you answer as part of your application. The answers will be used as part of the selection process. We also ask all candidates to upload a CV and provide at least 2 references. Welcome to submit your application no later than July 22, 2026, UFV-PA 2026/2126. Uppsala University is a broad research university with a strong international position. The ultimate goal is to conduct education and research of the highest quality and relevance to make a difference in society. Our most important asset is all 7,500 employees and 53,000 students who with curiosity and commitment make Uppsala University one of the country's most exciting workplaces. Read more about our benefits and what it's like to work at Uppsala University https://uu.se/om-uu/jobba-hos-oss/ The position may be subject to security vetting. A prerequisite for employment in security vetting is that the applicant is approved. We decline offers of recruitment and advertising assistance. Applications are received through Uppsala University's recruitment system. Trade union representatives: Saco-S - [email protected], Seko - [email protected], ST (OFR/S) - [email protected] Please note that this is an abbreviated version of the announcement. To see the full announcement, please click on "Apply on external website" or visit Uppsala University's website: https://uu.se/jobb/

Overview

Type

job

Status

active

Visibility

public

City

Uppsala

Address

box 256

GPS

59.8710738, 17.5946002copyopen in

Email

[email protected]

Phone

018-4712863

Views

2

Published

18. 6. 2026

Edited

21. 6. 2026

Specifications