Graduate position: EPFL_Lausanne.BacterialCommunicationEvolution PhD Position: Evolution of Bacterial Communication Systems Systems and Synthetic Evolutionary Biology Lab Institute of Bioengineering, EPFL Lausanne, Switzerland PROJECT DESCRIPTION Bacteria have evolved diverse chemical communication systems to coordinate collective behaviours such as biofilm formation, pathogenicity, and interspecies interactions. Yet the molecular mechanisms by which these systems diversify remain poorly understood. This project will investigate the evolution and functional diversification of bacterial communication systems, with a focus on how quorum sensing proteins evolve new functions. The work will combine experimental and computational approaches, including high-throughput characterization of protein variants, phylogenetic methods, and evolutionary simulations. REQUIREMENTS * Master's degree (by start date) in Evolutionary Biology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Bioinformatics, Quantitative Biology, or a related field * Genuine curiosity about the molecular mechanisms underlying evolutionary change * Motivation to work at the interface of experimental and computational biology * Very good English communication skills Experience in evolutionary biology, phylogenetics, molecular microbiology, protein biochemistry, bioinformatics, or programming (Python, R) is desirable. WE OFFER * A fully funded PhD position with competitive Swiss salary * Access to outstanding research infrastructure at EPFL * A highly interactive and collaborative research environment START DATE: between September 2026 and January 2027. HOW TO APPLY Applications must be submitted through one of the following EPFL doctoral programs (deadline April 15, 2026): * EDMS (Molecular Life Sciences) * EDBB (Biotechnology and Bioengineering) * EDCB (Computational and Quantitative Biology) Interested candidates are strongly encouraged to contact Caua Westmann directly before or while applying at caua.antuneswestmann@epfl.ch. Please include a CV, a brief statement of research interests and motivation (max. one page), and names of two references. Caua Westmann Cau� Antunes Westmann (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to golding@mcmaster.ca)