Title: PhD Candidate in Neotropical Fish Palaeontology and Systematics
- Department: Department of Palaeontology, University of Zurich
- Start Date: Spring 2025
- Employment Type: Temporary, 80% workload
Research Focus
- The candidate will be involved in a Swiss National Science Foundation-supported project.
- Main research will target:
- The fossil record and evolutionary history of freshwater fishes, particularly catfish and cichlid clades.
- Taxonomic and systematic research.
- Faunal dynamics through deep time.
- Comparative anatomical studies (using CT and surface scanning for 3D modeling).
- Fieldwork opportunities in South America.
Eligibility Criteria
- Educational Background:
- Master’s degree or equivalent in Life or Earth Sciences, zoology, or palaeontology.
- Skills:
- Excellent writing skills in English.
- Basic knowledge of systematics, vertebrate anatomy, and statistics.
- Publications: Applicants who have published or are about to publish their Master’s thesis work are preferred.
Application Process
- Required Documents:
- Letter of motivation (max 2 pages) including previous scientific work and publications.
- CV.
- Contact details of two referees.
- Electronic copy of the Master’s thesis.
- Submission: All documents should be combined into a single PDF and sent to Alexandra Wegmann at alexandra.wegmann@uzh.ch.
- Deadline: Applications are accepted until January 17, 2025, or until the position is filled.
- Interview: Candidates should be prepared for interviews in February 2025.
Working Environment
- The University of Zurich offers:
- State-of-the-art research facilities.
- A collaborative and supportive academic atmosphere.
- Opportunities for scientific outreach through the Natural History Museum.
Benefits
- Work-Life Balance: Flexible working models, childcare options.
- Learning and Development: Continuing education courses, language center access.
- Healthcare and Discount Offers: Special health provisions, various discounts on services and products.
Location
- Department Address: Karl-Schmid-Strasse 4, 8006 Zürich, Switzerland.
Contact for Queries
- General inquiries can be directed to Prof. Dr. Marcelo Sánchez-Villagra or Alexandra Wegmann at the provided email addresses.
This PhD position represents an exciting opportunity for those looking to contribute significantly to the field of palaeontology, particularly in the study of Neotropical fishes, within a supportive and resource-rich environment.
