The Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Biology in Plön, Germany is looking for a PhD candidate (f/m/d) - Evolutionary Developmental Biologist to study the evolution of developmental programs Your profile We are seeking an evolutionary and/or developmental biologist with a solid empirical background and methodological skillset and a keen interest in addressing fundamental questions in contemporary Evo-Devo. You will collaborate with an international team of experimental and computational biologists to explore the evolution of craniofacial development. The challenge The body compartment that has acquired the highest degree of morphological diversity in vertebrates is the head and particularly the face. Today's spectrum of vertebrate craniofacial shapes reflects evolutionary adaptations to the environment, the development of distinct feeding strategies, communication, and other specialized functions. The head and face, including their specific shape, emerge during embryogenesis. We study how developmental programs controlling the development of the head evolved to generate a spectrum of different shapes. In particular, we investigate the interplay between genetic information, gene regulatory networks, cell behaviour, and morphology during this process. By examining species across evolutionary scales, we aim to uncover the mechanisms underlying morphological evolution and the general principles of embryonic development. Our team employs various vertebrate models, from sharks to mice, and modern approaches (single-cell omics, multiplexed HCR, 3D and high-resolution imaging, micro-computed tomography) alongside conventional Evo-Devo and molecular biology methods. The requirements - MSc degree in Biology, with a focus on molecular, developmental, evolutionary, cell biology, or related fields. - Solid understanding of biological processes at multiple levels (genetics, molecular, cellular, and organismal). - Experience with Evo-Devo methodologies, molecular & cell biology techniques, genomics, or bioinformatics. - Excellent written and spoken English communication skills. - Ability to integrate concepts from various biological disciplines - High motivation and commitment to the research project. - Creative, communicative, goal-oriented with a collaborative mindset, able to work both independently and in a team. We offer The position is available from the earliest possible starting date. Contracts are awarded after an initial start-up phase (6 months; non-taxable stipend) for a period of three years (fully funded). Remuneration and social benefits are based on the German Civil Service Collective Agreement (TVöD Bund); see https://oeffentlicher-dienst.info/tvoed/bund/. The salary includes all mandatory social insurance contributions for health care, long-term care, unemployment, and retirement. The candidate will be part of the International Max Planck Research School for Evolutionary PhD, a well-established program with a vibrant research community and outstanding infrastructure. About us The Max Planck Society has set itself the goal of employing more severely disabled people. Applications from severely disabled people are expressly welcome. In addition, the Max Planck Society strives for gender equality and diversity. We welcome applications from any background. How to apply - cover letter, including your research interests, motivation and relevant work experience - academic CV, including a list of publications and methodological skillset - name and email address of two or more scholars who can serve as a reference Send the required application material as a single PDF to: kaucka@evolbio.mpg.de by March 31st 2025. For further inquiries, please contact the PI directly via email: kaucka@evolbio.mpg.de Institute web page: www.evolbio.mpg.de Lab web page: www.evolbio.mpg.de/evodevodynamics Please note that only candidates who meet the qualifications outlined in the job description will be considered. Generic, irrelevant or incomplete applications will not be acknowledged. Marketa Kaucka (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to golding@mcmaster.ca)