We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to investigate how
operational sex ratios shape long-term evolutionary adaptations in
reproductive strategies. The project leverages Drosophila prolongata
populations experimentally evolved over 60 generations under male-
or female-biased OSR regimes. This work addresses critical gaps in
understanding how competition and mate choice drive the evolution of
male and female mating strategies in dynamic social environments.

Your responsibilities:
This fully funded project of 4 years combines large-scale experimental
evolution with cutting-edge deep-learning tools for automated,
high-throughput phenotyping of behavioral and morphological traits. This
approach allows rigorous testing of hypotheses about adaptive benefits
of evolved strategies in mixed social contexts.

Your profile:
- Master's degree in evolutionary biology, ecology, animal behavior, or
  a related field
- Good knowledge of sexual selection theory and evolutionary ecology
- Experience with statistical analysis using R or similar
- Enthusiasm for lab-based experimental work using a unique
  Drosophila species
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in an
  interdisciplinary team
- Strong written and verbal communication skills in English

Prior experience with behavioral assays, insect experimentation, or
deep-learning is a plus though not essential. We prioritize candidates
with a commitment to learning these techniques.

Information on your application:
Please submit your application through the following form:

https://ohws.prospective.ch/public/v1/application/faede58f-a691-4a13-9d4c-346aac46d0b5?lang=en

Your application should include:
- Motivation letter (1-2 pages) describing your expertise and interests,
  as well as why you see yourself as a good fit for this project
- CV with publication list (if available) and contacts of 2-3 referees
- Academic transcripts

Interviews will start on 9 June 2025.

Please direct any questions regarding this position to:

Prof. Dr. Stefan Lupold
Department of Evolutionary Biology 
and Environmental Studies
University of Zurich-Irchel
Winterthurerstrasse 190
8057 Zurich
Switzerland
 
E-mail: stefan.luepold@uzh.ch
Web:   https://www.lupoldlab.net