Summary: The Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior is offering a fully funded PhD student position in the field of “towering behavior and collective dispersal in nematode groups.” This opportunity enables candidates to engage in innovative research within a collaborative and interdisciplinary environment.
Designation
PhD Student (m/f/d) – Towering Behavior and Collective Dispersal in Nematode Groups
Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Research Area | Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, Genetics, Behavioral Sciences, Microbiology, Ecology |
| Location | Konstanz, Germany |
| Eligibility/Qualification | MSc in biology, animal behavior, collective behavior, or a related field |
| Description | The project focuses on understanding collective and individual behavioral strategies in nematodes, particularly their dispersal behaviors and social dynamics. The candidate will engage in laboratory and fieldwork, developing their own research questions and methodologies supported by an international team. |
| How to Apply | Candidates must submit a CV and a research statement addressing their research interests and proposed approach to the project via the IMPRS application system. |
| Last Date to Apply | January 13, 2026 |
Research Area
This position is part of the Genes and Behavior Research Group, which aims to quantitatively understand animal decision-making and movements in natural environments, particularly focusing on nematodes.
Location
The workplace will be at the Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior in Konstanz, Germany, with opportunities to engage in fieldwork.
Eligibility/Qualification
Essential Requirements:
- MSc in biology, animal behavior, collective behavior, or a related field.
- Fundamental interest in biological phenomena.
- Experimental and analytical skills, critical thinking, and literature awareness.
- Proficiency in verbal and written English.
Desirable Experience:
- Experience in hypothesis-driven experimental design in animal behavior.
- Skills in quantitative data analysis and programming (R, Matlab, Python).
- Familiarity with C. elegans and/or fluorescence imaging techniques would be advantageous.
Description
The chosen candidate will explore how nematodes alternate between individual and collective behaviors and examine the ecological context of these activities. The project will leverage the empirical tractability of nematodes, such as C. elegans, to investigate collective behaviors and their implications in various ecological scenarios.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their applications through the IMPRS application system by including:
- A CV.
- A research statement detailing:
- Main research interests and their relation to the project.
- Proposed methodologies including hypotheses, experimental design, and mock figures of expected results.
Last Date to Apply
Applications must be submitted by January 13, 2026.
