Position: Postdoc in Genomics of Convergent Insect Lineages Laboratory of Insect Symbiosis (Aleš Buèek) Institute of Entomology Biology Centre in Èeské Budìjovice - Czechia https://bucek-lab.org/ Start: early 2026 (exact date negotiable) for 2 years Application deadlines: 1st December 2025 Organisms frequently evolve similar adaptations in response to similar environments. Do these organisms follow parallel or unique (lineage-specific) trajectories? Is macroevolution at the molecular level deterministic or predictable under certain circumstances? We lack these answers due to the scarcity of comparative genomic studies on massively multiply convergent organismal groups. We are seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow who will address these questions by employing our lab's model system: rove beetles (Staphylinidae: Aleocharinae) that independently adapted more than fifteen times to symbiosis with termites. The PostDoc is expected to leverage our in-house unpublished genomic data currently at the stage of scaffolded near-chromosome level assemblies covering six independent origins of termitophily and their sister or closely related free-living lineages. The candidate is expected to design experiments and analyses that complement and expand the comparative genomics approach. The only restriction to the creativity of the successful candidate will be the use of the beetle-termite model system. We require - curiosity and enthusiasm about insect molecular evolution - motivation and ability to lead a research project - PhD degree in biology, bioinformatics, or related fields - proficiency in bioinformatics, experience with comparative genomics is highly desirable We offer - stimulating research environment of an international team (Colombian, British, Danish, Indian, Czech) focused on macroevolution of termites and their parasites - living environment of a green campus within the most bicycle-friendly city in Czechia - starting monthly net salary based on previous experience at least 1,600 EUR (~ 120% of avg. net salary in the region, living cost is lower than in western Europe) with 5% growth after first year Apply by sending a single pdf including a motivation letter (~ 1 page), CV, and contact information for two reference persons (one of them preferably a previous supervisor) to Aleš Buèek (ales.bucek@entu.cas.cz). Inquiries for further details are welcome. Apply by sending a single pdf including a motivation letter (~ 1 page), CV, and contact information for two reference persons (one of them preferably a previous supervisor) to Aleš Buèek (ales.bucek@entu.cas.cz). Inquiries for further details are welcome. Ales Bucek (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to golding@mcmaster.ca)