Vacant job

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 centre for evolutionary biology 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 programme for plant ecology and evolution, where the PhD position is located, houses nine research groups focusing on genomics, adaptation and speciation as well as community ecology. The 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.

Short project description: Sex ratios and the evolution of sex chromosomes

Sex chromosomes are of fundamental importance in biology, but our understanding of their evolution is still limited. Genetic conflicts, such as meiotic drive affecting sex ratios, have long been linked to the rapid evolution of sex chromosomes and can thus contribute to divergence and speciation. In this project, we study a plant genus, willow (Salix), which is dioecious. Within Salix, a skewed sex ratio favouring females is common, and a high turnover of sex chromosomes has been described.

In this PhD 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 within population genomics, bioinformatics, and modelling, and, to a lesser extent, also with experiments in growth chambers and in the molecular biology laboratory.

As a PhD student, you will participate in a tailored course programme that supports your scientific and academic development as well as strengthens your pedagogical skills. For those interested, there are good opportunities to participate in teaching.

Qualifications

To be eligible for PhD studies, you must

• have completed an advanced level degree in biology with a specialization in evolutionary biology, population genetics/genomics, bioinformatics, or a related subject. You are also welcome to apply if you expect to graduate shortly. Please explain this in your application.
• have completed at least 240 higher education credits, of which at least 60 credits at advanced level including an independent project of at least 15 credits, or
• have acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way.

Eligible applicants must demonstrate skills in evolutionary biology and advanced population genomics. Applicants must also have the ability and interest to work in teams, 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 the assessment of candidates, special emphasis will be placed on personal qualities such as independence, strong motivation, and good teamwork skills.

Merits

Previous experience with population genomic modelling (e.g., SLiM), analysis of structural variants from long-read data, as well as population genomic analyses (WGS) is meritorious—these techniques will be needed in the project. Education or previous participation in research on sex ratios, the evolution of sex chromosomes, structural variation, selfish genetic elements, meiotic drive, or related subjects is an advantage.

At least a minor part of the PhD project will involve molecular laboratory work and experiments with plants (willow species). If you have previously worked with these methods, it is a plus, 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 different parts of the project will be revised and further developed based on current progress and results. We expect the PhD student to take an active role in the development of the project!

About the position

The employment is time-limited, according to HF 5 ch. 7. The scope is full-time. Start date from 2026-10-01 or during autumn 2026 as agreed. Location: Uppsala.

Regulations for PhD students can be found in the Higher Education Ordinance 5 ch. §§ 1-7 as well as in the university's rules and guidelines.

Information about the employment 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 in connection with your application. The answers will be used as part of the selection process. We also ask all candidates to upload a CV and to provide at least 2 references.

Welcome to apply by 12 August 2026, UFV-PA 2026/2126.

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 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 a security clearance. In the case of a security clearance, a prerequisite for employment is that the applicant is approved.

We decline offers of recruitment and advertising assistance.

Applications are received in Uppsala University's recruitment system.

Union representatives: Saco-S - [email protected], Seko - [email protected], ST (OFR/S) - [email protected]

Please note that this is a shortened version of the advertisement. To see the full advertisement, please click "Apply on external website" or visit Uppsala University's website: https://uu.se/jobb/ (https://uu.se/jobb/)