We offer a 3-year PhD position (65% TV-L E13, DFG-funded) for studying genomic mechanisms linked to the multiple origins of sub-sociality in beetles. Subsociality has evolved in at least ten beetle families. The project aims to discover the transcriptomic patterns linked to social evolution using transcriptomics and behavioural experiments in wood boring weevils and burying beetles.

Please find more information about us on our websites

Sandra Steiger (University of Bayreuth)

Peter Biedermann (University of Freiburg)

Volker Nehring (University of Freiburg)

We are looking for a candidate (m/f/d) with a background in molecular ecology and/or evolutionary biology and a MSc degree (or equivalent) in Biology or a related field. Experience with wet lab work, bioinformatics, and behavioural experiments is advantageous.To apply, please send a single pdf file containing

• a ca. 1-page motivation letter,
• your CV (including publications and university grades),
• a max. 300 word abstract of a previous research project (typically your MSc project),
• and the names and email addresses of two potential referees

to silke.wagner@uni-bayreuth.de by September 4th, 2022.

The successful applicant will join an international dynamic scientific environment at the University of Bayreuth and/or the Albert Ludwigs University of Freiburg and will have access to state-of-the-art laboratories. He/she will work in close collaboration with other researchers within the DFG funded Priority Programme GEvol. The goal of the priority programme is to collaboratively and interdisciplinarily exploit new computational and OMICS methods to reveal the history of genomes in the insect taxon by comparative genomics.

The University of Bayreuth and the University of Freiburg advocate gender equality. Women are therefore strongly encouraged to apply. Equally qualified handicapped applicants will be given preference. 

For more information on the project, please contact Prof Dr. Sandra Steiger and Dr. Volker Nehring.