PhD Position in Behavioural Ecology Dr. Tom Ratz from the Department of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies at the University of Zurich is offering a fully funded 4-year PhD position. The project focuses on investigating how competitive interactions influence evolutionary trajectories, utilizing the sexually dimorphic fruit fly Drosophila prolongata. The research aims to understand how the intensity of competition for sexual partners and/or food resources shapes the evolution of aggressiveness and associated behavioral plasticity. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in setting up and monitoring experimental populations to observe evolution in action.
Fully Funded PhD Position in Behavioural Ecology using Experimental Evolution
Study Area: Behavioural Ecology using Experimental Evolution
Location: Winterthurerstrasse, Zürich, Switzerland
Eligibility/Qualification: Applicants should hold an MSc degree in evolutionary biology, behavioural ecology, or a related field. Strong qualifications in conducting behavioural experiments, data analysis using statistical software, and excellent communication and writing skills in English are required. The ideal candidate should be capable of working independently and collaboratively within a diverse team.
Description: The PhD student will be responsible for establishing and maintaining experimental populations of Drosophila flies. Monitoring a range of phenotypic traits, such as behaviors, morphologies, life-histories, and gene expression, will be crucial to track evolutionary changes across populations. In addition to conducting experiments, the candidate is expected to analyze data and contribute to the publication of research findings in high-quality, peer-reviewed journals. Active participation in lab activities, including meetings, journal clubs, and social events, is encouraged.
What we offer: The successful candidate will have access to a large outbred stock of D. prolongata and excellent lab facilities, including controlled-climate rooms and a well-equipped entomology lab. The Department of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies at UZH provides a stimulating and supportive working environment. Diversity and inclusion are valued, and the department promotes collaboration across research groups.
How to Apply: Interested candidates should submit a single PDF file containing:
- Cover letter, including a brief description of past research experience and motivation for the project.
- Detailed CV, including publications.
- Contact information of two references.
Please submit your application by 15.03.2024.
Last Date: The application deadline is March 15, 2024. Candidates are encouraged to apply by this date. The employment start date will be mutually agreed upon. For further information or inquiries, please contact Dr. Tom Ratz.
