The Microbiota-Gut-Brain Axis and Behaviour Lab at the Department of Genetics and Evolution, University of Geneva (UNIGE), invites applications for a fully funded 4-year PhD position. Led by Dr. Joanito Liberti, this exciting research opportunity focuses on the intricate relationship between gut symbionts, neurophysiology, and behaviour in bees. The project provides flexibility for the successful candidate to tailor their research based on their interests and strengths.
📋 Summary Table
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Position | Fully Funded PhD Position |
| Location | University of Geneva, Switzerland |
| Duration | 4 Years |
| Start Date | Between September and December 2025 |
| Application Deadline | May 25th, 2025 |
| Research Area | Microbiota-Gut-Brain Axis, Behavioural Ecology, Evolutionary Biology |
| Salary | Competitive, based on Swiss university standards |
🎓 Designation
PhD Student (Fully Funded)
🔬 Research Area
- Microbiota-gut-brain interactions
- Bee behaviour and neurophysiology
- Microbial ecology
- Molecular biology and multi-omics (metagenomics, transcriptomics, etc.)
- Evolutionary significance of host-microbiota interactions
📍 Location
Department of Genetics and Evolution,
University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
✅ Eligibility/Qualification
- MSc degree in:
- Evolutionary Biology
- Behavioural Ecology
- Microbiology
- Molecular Biology
- Or a related field
- Experience in:
- Experimental design and behavioural studies
- NGS technologies and bioinformatics pipelines
- Familiarity with:
- R, Python, Bash, Linux
- Statistical analysis and scientific writing
- Bee-related research experience is a plus but not required
📝 Job Description
The PhD candidate will join a dynamic, interdisciplinary team exploring how gut microbes influence animal behaviour and neurophysiology, particularly in bees. The research can be tailored to the candidate’s expertise and interest, including:
- Investigating microbial impacts on brain function and social behaviour
- Analysing microbiome dynamics in relation to bee social structures
- Utilizing cutting-edge molecular techniques: automated behavioural tracking, microscopy, metagenomics, and more
What You Will Get:
- Collaborative and supportive international research environment
- Access to top-tier research facilities and tools
- Integration into the PhD Program in Ecology and Evolution
- Opportunities for national and international collaborations
📬 How to Apply
Email a single PDF application to Dr. Joanito Liberti at: joanito.liberti[@]unige.ch
Your application must include:
- A one-page cover letter highlighting your research interests and relevant experience
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Contact details of two academic referees
Informal inquiries are welcome prior to application submission.
📅 Last Date to Apply
May 25th, 2025
Join a leading international team at the University of Geneva and contribute to cutting-edge research at the intersection of microbiology, neuroscience, and animal behaviour!
