PhD fellowship in Biodiversity Genomics
PhD fellowship in Biodiversity Genomics, University of Copenhagen
Department of Biology
Faculty of Science
University of Copenhagen
The Department of Biology, Section for Ecology and Evolution invites applicants for a PhD fellowship in biodiversity genomics. The PhD scholarship is part of a research project “Genomic insights into evolutionary novelties in seahorses, pipefishes and seadragons” funded by a Villum Young Investigator grant.
Start date is 1 October 2023 or as soon as possible thereafter.
The project
The PhD project will explore the genomic architecture of convergent morphological and ecological innovations of syngnathiform fishes. This will be achieved on one hand using comparative genomic approaches across the diversity of syngnathiforms with convergent phenotypes. Secondly, the PhD candidate will lead a project to study populations of different pipefish species adapted to the same environmental conditions (i.e. a salinity gradient across the Baltic Sea). The PhD candidate is expected to participate in the design of experiments, conduct fieldwork collecting fish, and perform bioinformatic analyses. Important research approaches will include bioinformatics, comparative genomics and population genomics, in addition to integrating the morphology and ecology of these fishes. The project will involve a longer research stay abroad at a host institution to be determined.
Who are we looking for?
We are looking for candidates with keen interest and relevant experience in evolution, genomics, bioinformatics, or related fields.
Our group and research
Daily work will be based in the thriving research environment of the Section for Ecology and Evolution, part of the Department of Biology, Faculty of SCIENCE, University of Copenhagen. Our Biodiversity Genomics lab investigates questions pertaining to the evolution of biodiversity using phylogenomic, population genetic and comparative genomic approaches. We study a range of organisms from marine invertebrates to fishes and birds to understand how their diversity arose and has been shaped through evolution. The current focus is on syngnathiform fishes, a diverse group that evolved a number of unique morphological, ecological and life-history traits, which we aim to understand with a large-scale comparative genomic dataset spanning 300 species that the lab is currently generating. We offer creative and stimulation working conditions in a dynamic and international research environment, including modern laboratories and computing facilities.
Principal supervisor is Assistant Professor Josefin Stiller, Section for Ecology and Evolution, Department of Biology, josefin.stiller@bio.ku.dk
Qualifications needed for the regular PhD programme
To be eligible for the regular PhD programme, you must have completed a degree programme, equivalent to a Danish master’s degree (180 ECTS/3 FTE BSc + 120 ECTS/2 FTE MSc) related to the subject area of the project, e.g. evolution, genomics, bioinformatics, or related fields. For information of eligibility of completed programmes, see General assessments for specific countries and Assessment database.
Terms of employment in the regular programme
Employment as PhD fellow is full time and for maximum 3 years.
Employment is conditional upon your successful enrolment as a PhD student at the PhD School at the Faculty of SCIENCE, University of Copenhagen. This requires submission and acceptance of an application for the specific project formulated by the applicant.
The terms of employment and salary are in accordance to the agreement between the Ministry of Finance and The Danish Confederation of Professional Associations on Academics in the State (AC). The position is covered by the Protocol on Job Structure
Responsibilities and tasks in the PhD programme
Carry through an independent research project under supervision
Complete PhD courses corresponding to approx. 30 ECTS / ½ FTE
Participate in active research environments, including a stay at another research institution, preferably abroad
Teaching and knowledge dissemination activities
Write scientific papers aimed at high-impact journals
Write and defend a PhD thesis on the basis of your project
We are looking for the following qualifications
Applications should have a MSc degree in one of the fields outlined above, as well as:
Strong motivation for doctoral studies, ability to work both independently and in a team, and creativity in problem-solving
An interest in fish biology, evolution and genomics
Experience in data analysis, preferably of biological sequence data
Excellent English speaking, reading and writing skills
Embrace of an international research environment and interdisciplinary research
Experience with molecular biological techniques (e.g. DNA/RNA extraction, library preparation) is advantageous, but not required
Relevant scientific publications are advantageous, but not required
Application and Assessment Procedure
Your application including all attachments must be in English and submitted electronically by clicking APPLY NOW below.
Please include:
Cover letter (max. 2 pages), detailing your motivation and background for applying for the PhD project
Curriculum vitae (max. 2 pages) including a list of publications (if any)
Copies of relevant diplomas and transcripts (Master and Bachelor)
Publication list (if any)
The deadline for applications is 3 May 2023, 23:59 GMT +2.
We reserve the right not to consider material received after the deadline, and not to consider applications that do not live up to the abovementioned requirements.
The further process
After the deadline, a number of applicants will be selected for academic assessment by an unbiased expert assessor. You are notified, whether you will be passed for assessment.
The assessor will assess the qualifications and experience of the shortlisted applicants with respect to the above mentioned research area, techniques, skills and other requirements. The assessor will conclude whether each applicant is. The assessed applicants will have the opportunity to comment on their assessment. You can read about the recruitment process at https://employment.ku.dk/faculty/recruitment-process/. Interviews with selected candidates will be held during week 23 and 24.
Questions
For specific information about the PhD fellowship, please contact the principal supervisor Assistant Professor Josefin Stiller, Section for Ecology and Evolution, Department of Biology via email at josefin.stiller@bio.ku.dk.
General information about PhD study at the Faculty of SCIENCE is available at the PhD School’s website: https://www.science.ku.dk/phd/.
The University of Copenhagen wishes to reflect the surrounding community and invites all regardless of personal background to apply for the position.
Part of the International Alliance of Research Universities (IARU), and among Europe’s top-ranking universities, the University of Copenhagen promotes research and teaching of the highest international standard. Rich in tradition and modern in outlook, the University gives students and staff the opportunity to cultivate their talent in an ambitious and informal environment. An effective organisation – with good working conditions and a collaborative work culture – creates the ideal framework for a successful academic career.
Contact
Josefin Stiller
E-mail: josefin.stiller@bio.ku.dk
Info
Application deadline: 03-05-2023
Employment start: 01-10-2023
Department/Location: Department of Biology
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