PhD Student in Evolutionary and Ecological Genetics

Uppsala Universitet · Full-time

box 256, Uppsala, Sweden

Do you want to conduct groundbreaking research in a leading environment within evolutionary biology? The Department of Ecology and Genetics (IEG) at Uppsala University conducts world-leading research in biology, from molecules to ecosystems and global biodiversity patterns. We are now seeking a PhD student who wants to develop their research career with us. IEG at the Evolutionary Biology Centre is an international research environment with access to advanced research infrastructure, such as supercomputing resources (NAISS), SciLifeLab platforms, climate laboratory, greenhouses, and modern laboratories. PhD students can also join the department's graduate school, which offers excellent networking opportunities. The position is offered within the research program for Zoo Ecology. Research includes population and conservation genomics, quantitative genetics, evolutionary ecology, behavioral ecology, and macroecology. Project Description: A central question in evolutionary biology is whether evolutionary changes are repeatable and whether the same genes contribute to repeated phenotypic adaptations. This question has important implications for our ability to predict genetic responses to changing environments. This project aims to integrate mechanistic insights about phenotypic adaptation with genomic data to understand how species develop adaptations to changes in their living environment. The project will utilize data from a large-scale Evolve-and-Resequence experiment on a widespread pest insect, the seed beetle Callosobruchus maculatus. This unique system enables studies of the role of determinism and chance in local adaptation and the evolution of a species' ecological niche. Phenotypic data, RNA-seq, and DNA pool-seq data are available from multiple time points in the ongoing experiment. The Berger group also maintains several other geographic populations of C. maculatus as well as closely related seed beetle species. This provides opportunities for comparative genomics and additional experiments and data collection. Main Duties: The PhD project will involve a combination of experimental laboratory work and bioinformatic analysis, with emphasis on the latter. The exact distribution between tasks may depend on the candidate's interests and project development. PhD students at the Department of Ecology and Genetics (IEG) have the opportunity to participate in teaching and develop their pedagogical CV by taking courses. The type and extent of teaching depends on availability and the student's interests but may not exceed 20% of full-time. Employment and funding are extended corresponding to the time spent on teaching. The PhD student will work with the main supervisor David Berger and co-supervisor, SciLifeLab researcher Dr Gabriela Montejo-Kovacevich, both at IEG. Qualification Requirements: To meet the eligibility requirements for doctoral studies, you must: have a master's degree (second cycle) in evolutionary biology, ecology, bioinformatics, or a related field, or have completed at least 240 higher education credits, of which at least 60 credits at advanced level including an independent project worth at least 15 credits, or have acquired equivalent knowledge in another way (e.g., extensive research experience). Candidates who have not yet completed their degree but are expected to meet the requirements by the start date may apply for the position. The ideal candidate should also: Have a good understanding of central concepts in ecology and/or evolutionary biology/genetics. Have programming experience. Be motivated and curious and enjoy a collaborative environment. Be able to take responsibility for carrying out and completing independent tasks and projects. Be able to express yourself well in both spoken and written English. Meritorious: Experience with statistical analyses applied to quantitative genetic or population genomic data. Experience working with bioinformatic pipelines on servers and clusters. Experimental work, such as experience with experimental evolution or work with genetic lines. About the Employment: The employment is a fixed-term position according to the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5 §7. Scope: full-time (100%), for four years. Start Date: 2027; flexible by agreement. Location: Uppsala University. Rules for PhD students are found in the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5, §§ 1–7 and in Uppsala University's rules and guidelines. Application Instructions: The application should include: 1) A personal letter in which you describe yourself, your research interests, why you want to pursue a doctorate, and why you are suitable for this particular position and project (max 2 pages), 2) CV, 3) A brief description of your education, 4) Copy of master's degree and course transcripts as well as copy of master's thesis, 5) Names and contact information for at least two referees (email and phone number), 6) Any publications. Information about the position is provided by: University Lecturer, David Berger, [email protected] Welcome to submit your application by November 1, 2026. UFV-PA 2026/2654. Please note that this is a shortened version of the job posting. To see the complete job posting, please click on "Apply" or visit Uppsala University's website: https://uu.se/jobb/ Uppsala University is a broad research university with a strong international standing. 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. In the event of security vetting, approval of the applicant is a prerequisite for employment. We decline offers of recruitment and advertising assistance. Applications are received in Uppsala University's recruitment system. Trade Union Representatives: Saco-S - [email protected], Seko - [email protected], ST (OFR/S) - [email protected]