PhD Scholarship – Evolutionary Microbiology: The Institute of Evolutionary Biology (IBE), a joint institute of the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) and Pompeu Fabra University (UPF), Barcelona, invites applications for a fully-funded four-year PhD position in the Evolutionary Microbiology Lab under Project PID2024-161831NA-I00. This project investigates bacterial adaptation mechanisms to nutrient-limited and fluctuating environments using experimental evolution and genomics.
Position Details
Designation: PhD Student (Fully-funded, 4 years)
Research Area: Evolutionary Microbiology, Molecular Evolution, Bacterial Adaptation
Location: Institute of Evolutionary Biology (IBE), Barcelona Biomedical Research Park (PRBB), Spain
Start Date: March 2026
Salary: €24,500/year (gross)
Project Overview
The project aims to study how bacteria with multipartite genomes adapt to nutrient limitation under constant and fluctuating conditions. Using experimental evolution, whole-genome sequencing, and omics approaches, the work will focus on uncovering the role of copy number variations in driving adaptive responses to stress.
Job Description / Specific Tasks
- Conduct experimental evolution of bacterial populations.
- Perform transcriptome and genome sequencing and analysis.
- Carry out targeted laboratory experiments to test hypotheses derived from evolution experiments.
- Collaborate within a dynamic and interdisciplinary research environment.
Eligibility / Qualification Requirements
- Master’s degree in evolutionary biology, microbiology, or related field.
- Strong interest in evolutionary biology.
- Experience with standard molecular biology techniques (microbial culture, sterile techniques, PCR, cloning, DNA/RNA isolation, sequencing).
- Programming skills and experience in next-generation sequencing data analysis are advantageous.
- Proficiency in English (oral and written).
- Motivated, curious, organized, and able to work both independently and collaboratively.
What We Offer
- Fully-funded 4-year PhD fellowship (Proyecto de Generación de Conocimiento, AEI).
- International research environment at PRBB with state-of-the-art facilities.
- Training, mentoring, and collaboration opportunities in a vibrant interdisciplinary setting.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should send the following documents by e-mail to Macarena Toll Riera (macarena.toll@ibe.upf-csic.es) with the subject line “PhD student position”:
- Motivation letter describing interest in the project.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Contact information of two potential references.
Application Deadline
📅 30th September 2025
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