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PhD Position in Evolutionary and Ecological Genetics

The Department of Ecology and Genetics at Uppsala University conducts research in biology, ranging from molecules to ecosystems and global biodiversity patterns. We are now seeking a PhD student who wishes to develop their research career with us.

The Department of Ecology and Genetics (IEG) at the Evolutionary Biology Centre (EBC) conducts research to understand ecological and evolutionary processes at all levels of biological organization. IEG offers access to advanced national and local research infrastructures, including supercomputer resources (NAISS) and the latest molecular technologies and sequencing platforms (SciLifeLab platforms). IEG has a climate laboratory with controlled environmental chambers and greenhouses, a molecular laboratory, and facilities for animal breeding. The position is offered within the research program in Zoo Ecology at IEG. The program's current research covers population and conservation genomics and quantitative genetics, evolutionary ecology, behavioral ecology, and macroecology.

Job 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 into phenotypic adaptation with genomic data to understand how species develop adaptations to changes in their environment.

The project utilizes data from a large-scale Evolve-and-Resequence experiment on a widespread pest insect, the seed beetle Callosobruchus maculatus. The 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 several time points in the experiment, which is still ongoing. The Berger group maintains several geographic populations of C. maculatus as well as closely related species of seed beetles, enabling comparative genomics as well as further experiments and data collection.

The PhD project involves a combination of experimental and molecular laboratory work and bioinformatic analysis, with an emphasis on the latter. The exact distribution of tasks may depend on the candidate's interests and the project's 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 depend on availability and the student's interests but must not exceed 20% of full-time. Employment and funding are extended corresponding to the time spent on teaching.

Qualification Requirements To meet the eligibility requirements for PhD 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 an advanced level including an independent project worth at least 15 credits, or
• have acquired equivalent knowledge in other ways (e.g., extensive research experience).

The ideal candidate should also have: A good understanding of central concepts in ecology and/or evolutionary biology/genetics. Experience with or demonstrated interest in programming. Personal qualities such as strong initiative, good work ethic, and enthusiasm for learning. Be highly motivated and curious and thrive in a collaborative environment. Be able to take responsibility for carrying out and completing independent tasks and projects. Be able to express oneself well in both spoken and written English.

Merits Experience with statistical analyses applied to quantitative genetic or population genomic data. Experience working with bioinformatic pipelines on servers and clusters. Experience with molecular laboratory work (e.g., DNA extractions and/or library preparation). Experimental work, such as experience with experimental evolution or working with genetic lines.

About the Employment The employment is a fixed-term position according to the Higher Education Ordinance Chapter 5 §7. Extent: full-time (100%). Start date: 2026-09-01 or by agreement. Location: Uppsala University. Rules for PhD students are outlined in the Higher Education Ordinance Chapter 5, §§ 1–7 and Uppsala University's rules and guidelines.

Information about the employment is provided by: Senior Lecturer, David Berger, [email protected]

Application Instructions The application should include: 1) A letter where you describe yourself, your research interests, why you wish to pursue a PhD education, and why you are suitable for the position. 2) Your CV. 3) A short description of your education. 4) A copy of your Master's degree and course grades, as well as a copy of your Master's thesis. 5) Names and contact details for at least two references (email addresses and phone numbers). 6) Any publications, if applicable. The application must be written in English.

Welcome with your application by May 22, 2026. UFV-PA 2026/853.

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 7,600 employees and 53,000 students who, with curiosity and engagement, make Uppsala University one of the country's most exciting workplaces.

Read more about our benefits and what it is like to work at Uppsala University: https://uu.se/om-uu/jobba-hos-oss/ (https://uu.se/om-uu/jobba-hos-oss/)

The employment may be subject to security clearance. In the event of security clearance, a condition for employment is that the applicant is approved.

We decline offers of recruitment and advertising assistance.

The application is received in Uppsala University's recruitment system.

Union Representatives: Saco-S - [email protected], Seko - [email protected], ST (OFR/S) - [email protected]Note that this is a shortened version of the advertisement. To see the full advertisement, please click on "Apply here" or visit Uppsala University's website: https://uu.se/jobb/ (https://uu.se/jobb/)