Phd position in genomics of plant-insect coadaption

Institute for Systematic and Evolutionary Botany
Phd position in genomics of plant-insect coadaption
60 %
A PhD position funded by the Swiss National Science Funds is available by 1st of July in my group at the Department of Systematic and Evolutionary Botany, University of Zurich, for a period of four years.
Your responsibilities
The position is to study the genomic bases of real-time plant-insect coevolution. In the project, experimental coevolution will be performed to test predictions derived from the geographic mosaic of coevolution theory, using Brassica rapa and Pieris rapae as plant-pollinator-herbivore model system. The successful applicant will be studying the genomic bases of coadaptation in Brassica and Pieris, using genomic and phenotypic data. Analyses of selection, GWAS, and co-GWAS will be performed to identify loci that (co)evolve in the interacting organisms.
Your profile
I am looking for a highly motivated PhD candidate to join my team working on evolutionary question in the context of plant-insect interactions. I offer a vibrant, collaborative work environment and high-quality supervision. Several of my past PhD students have published as first authors in the highest-ranking journals such as Science, Nature Communications, New Phytologist, Functional Ecology, etc.; many have consecutively attained PostDoc positions at renowned academic institutions. You should have a Master (or comparable) degree in any field of biology and a thorough interest in evolutionary biology; proficiency in English, both orally and written, is also required. Prior experience in bioinformatics, genomics analyses, GWAS, and scientific publishing is an advantage.
What we offer
Our department is located in the university botanical gardens and houses modern molecular and ecological labs, including greenhouses and climate chambers for plant cultivation. The University of Zurich has a broad research coverage of organismal and molecular biology, and several research groups work on evolutionary topics (lifescience-zurich ). The city of Zurich also offers excellent quality of life as well as an attractive surrounding for outdoor sports.
Place of work
Zollikerstrasse 107, 8008 Zürich, Switzerland
Start of employment
If you are interested in the job, please send me a letter by e-mail describing your motivation, CV, copy of degrees, publications (manuscripts), and e-mail addresses of two academic referees, by 1st of May 2022 (the job will remain open until filled). Please send all documents in a single file. If you have any further questions, don't hesitate to contact me.
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