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PhD-Position in Molecular Ecology and Aquatic Biodiversity (4 years)

PREpare Overseas

Nov 11, 2023

DEADLINE: December 10, 2023

The position is fully funded for four years, and will be based in the group of Prof. Dr. Florian Altermatt. The successful applicant will be a student of the University of Zurich and be part of the PhD Program in Ecology (www.ieu.uzh.ch/en/teaching/phd/graduate). 


Freshwater ecosystem are among the most biodiverse, yet critically threatened ecosystems. Understanding their genetic and organismal diversity is a prerequisite for their effective management and conservation. Contemporary biodiversity at the genetic and organismal level is shaped by a combination of natural and anthropogenic drivers, such as postglacial recolonization, habitat connectivity or environmental perturbations. Up to now, most molecular or community studies focussed on a relatively small set of organisms or at small spatial scales. Here, building on a unique and very extensive dataset and complemented by own field- and laboratory work, you will be analysing genetic, functional and organismal (taxonomic) diversity of freshwater amphipods in Switzerland/Central Europe as part of a large project studying the taxonomy, biodiversity and ecosystem role of amphipods (www.Amphipod.ch). For the genetic part, we will focus in particular on the Gammarus fossarum cryptic species complex, while for community analyses all amphipod species of Switzerland will be considered. The student is explicitly expected and encouraged to contribute to the conceptual development of the project, and to be interested in aquatic ecology in a wider sense. 


For the project, we offer state-of-the-art infrastructure, including molecular laboratory facilities (for DNA barcoding and eDNA metabarcoding), field-work, and access to a unique long-term dataset of thousands of amphipod samples/sites sampled over the last 10 years. The planned research project will fit in the wider range of research conducted in the Altermatt lab, involving conceptual and experimental work on meta-ecosystems and environmental DNA (eDNA) to understand aquatic biodiversity. While not necessarily part of this project, the student is expected to build and link to these capacities and general interests of the lab. 


Competitive applicants ideally have previous experience in molecular ecology, biodiversity sciences, or spatial ecology. Previous expertise and a strong interest in molecular data analysis (population genetics, barcoding analysis) are essential, including experience in molecular ecology (laboratory and bioinformatics). Candidates will be highly motivated, enthusiastic and independent persons with a passion for science. A good conceptual understanding of ecological and/or evolutionary theory and excellent laboratory skills are desired. Strong statistical skills are expected, and quantitative/theoretical interests and/or skills are an asset. Excellent communication and writing skills in English, good work ethics, and creative thinking are a must. A Masters level degree (or equivalent) in Ecology, Population Genetics, Environmental Sciences or related subject is necessary for admission. A valid car driving license is required for field work. 



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