Post-doc position A newly established lab at the Institute of Evolutionary Biology, University of Warsaw, invites applications for a postdoctoral-level Assistant Professor position funded by the Polish National Science Centre (SONATA project). The project "How changes in meristem patterning drive evolutionary innovations: insights from syncephalia in the sunflower family (Asteraceae)" investigates the developmental and genomic basis of morphological innovation in plants using comparative genomics, developmental transcriptomics, and gene expression analyses. We seek candidates with experience in plant evolutionary developmental biology (e.g. in situ hybridization, regeneration/transformation approaches) or comparative genomics/transcriptomics in evolutionary research. The position is full-time, starting October 2026 (initial 12-month contract with possible extension). Application deadline: 30 April 2026 For more details, visit: https://www.biol.uw.edu.pl/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2026/02/ogloszenie-WB-KG-1-2026-EN.pdf ___ Doctoral position A newly established lab at the Institute of Evolutionary Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw invites applications for a PhD student position funded by the Polish National Science Centre (NCN, SONATA-20 project). Project desciption: The sunflower family (Asteraceae), with more than 32,000 species, owes much of its evolutionary success to the capitulum, a complex, flower-like inflorescence that has undergone repeated modifications. One such innovation is syncephaly, in which capitula are composed of smaller, often highly reduced capitula. The project aims to uncover the evolutionary-developmental mechanisms underlying the formation of these fractal-like blossoms. The PhD project will integrate: - comparative genomics - transcriptomics - in situ gene expression analyses - functional and developmental approaches The successful candidate will conduct research within the project, prepare scientific publications, and present results at national and international conferences. Position details - Number of positions: 1 - Project duration: 36 months - Expected start: October 2026 - Monthly scholarship: ~3700 PLN net/month (years 1-2), increasing to ~4900 PLN net/month after midterm evaluation - Possibility to additionally apply for funding through the University of Warsaw Doctoral School Candidate requirements - MSc degree in biology, biotechnology, environmental science, or a related discipline - Basic background in plant biology - Either: laboratory experience (e.g. DNA/RNA isolation, PCR, electrophoresis), or computational experience (Unix environment, R and/or Python) - Good command of English (spoken and written) Application materials - Academic CV including research experience and skills - Copy of MSc diploma - One recommendation letter from a previous supervisor Applications should be sent directly to: j.baczynski@uw.edu.pl Selected candidates will be invited for short online interviews in the second half of April 2026. Application deadline: 17 April 2026 Expected decision date: 1 May 2026 Jakub Baczyñski, PhD Institute of Evolutionary Biology, Faculty of Biology, Biological and Chemical Research Centre, University of Warsaw ul.¯wirki i Wigury 101, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland e-mail:j.baczynski@uw.edu.pl website:ibe.biol.uw.edu.pl Jakub Baczyñski (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to golding@mcmaster.ca)