********************GradStudentPositions******************** PHD POSITION IN INVASION GENOMICS We invite applications for a PhD position within the project "Invasion success through genomic lens: insights from whole-genome diversity of invasive Hemiptera pests", funded by the Polish National Science Centre (NCN) OPUS grant. ABOUT THE PROJECT: The number of emerging alien species is growing worldwide, causing damage to natural ecosystems. A major focus in invasion ecology is to identify traits that contribute to invasion success. Genomic studies can be used to track the invasion process, reveal genomic regions involved in adaptation in the novel range and identify genome characteristics potentially facilitating invasions. In this project, we use two Hemipteran invasive insect species, Cinara curvipes and Leptoglossus occidentalis, as invasion models to unravel the genetic mechanisms behind invasion success. We will use whole genome data to get insight into population genomic differentiation of single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), structural variants (SV) that can have strong and immediate phenotypic effects and are often related to traits that support range expansion. We will also identify evolutionary events, such as gene family expansions or transposable element (TE) activity, that can modulate invasion success. ABOUT THE POSITION: The position is funded for 48 months. The successful candidate will be involved in de novo sequencing, assembly and annotation of C. curvipes genome. Further, the genomes of both species will be analysed in terms of structural variation, TE content and expansions of gene families potentially related to survival outside the native range. The presence of facultative bacterial endosymbionts of both species in their native and invasive populations will also be studied as a potential driver of invasiveness. The research will involve wet-lab work, but will be more skewed towards population genomic analyses. The PhD student will be supervised by Dr Aleksandra Biedrzycka, an evolutionary, conservation and invasion geneticist, at the Institute of Nature Conservation, Polish Academy of Sciences in Krak�w. The candidate will work in collaboration with Dr Pierre Nouhaud, evolutionary geneticist of invasive pest arthropod populations, at INRAE - CBGP Marseilles, France. REQUIREMENTS: The successful candidate must hold a M.Sc. degree. We seek applicants with: - a strong interest in evolutionary and population genomics. - experience or interest in bioinformatic analyses - good English language, communication and organizational skills. APPLICATION PROCESS: To apply, please send: a cover letter explaining your background, skills and motivation for this position, a CV, contact details of at least one academic reference willing to provide a recommendation. Applications and informal inquiries should be sent to Aleksandra Biedrzycka (Biedrzycka@iop.krakow.pl). DEADLINE AND SELECTION PROCESS: Review of applications is ongoing. To ensure full consideration, please apply as early as possible (but not later than August 2026). The PhD position may start between March and October 2026. We look forward to receiving your application! Aleksandra Biedrzycka Instytut Ochrony Przyrody Polskiej Akademii Nauk Al. Mickiewicza 33 31-120 Krak�w Tel. +48 12 370 35 53 Institute of Nature Conservation Polish Academy of Sciences Al. Mickiewicza 33 31-120 Krak�w, Poland phone +48 12 370 35 53 Aleksandra Biedrzycka (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to golding@mcmaster.ca) ********************GradStudentPositions******************** We want you:PhD position (4 years) in the PhenoRob Cluster of Excellence! In cooperation, we are looking for a part-time Research Assistant (65%) within the DFG-funded Cluster of Excellence "PhenoRob - Robotics and Phenotyping for Sustainable Crop Production" (EXC2070/2) in Core Project 5. As a doctoral candidate, you will contribute to the technological development of novel approaches for automated biodiversity monitoring in the field and collect data on biodiversity and the effects of diversified cropping systems on ecosystem processes and interaction networks between organisms. Your tasks: - Conducting independent research as part of your dissertation project, including the design, planning and analysis of ecological field experiments - Collecting and processing field and/or laboratory data using appropriate methods and quality standards - Statistical evaluation of complex data sets and interpretation of the results in a scientific context - Publishing research results in international journals and presenting them at national and international scientific conferences - Collaborating in project organisation, including coordination with cooperation partners and co-supervision of theses - Supporting research and teaching in the field of biodiversity monitoring Your profile: - University degree (master's degree) in biology, ecology, agricultural sciences or related disciplines - Knowledge of and interest in measurement technology, environmental technology or engineering sciences - Species knowledge in at least one species group (plants, insects, birds) - Excellent knowledge of the English language - Committed, flexible, team-oriented and interested in further training. We offer: - A varied and challenging role with one of the largest employers in the region - Opportunity to pursue a doctorate - Company pension scheme (VBL), - Numerous university sports activities - Excellent public transport connections thanks to our central location in Bonn, as well as the opportunity to take advantage of affordable parking - Flexible working hours and the opportunity to work from home - Remuneration in accordance with remuneration group 13 TV-L. The University of Bonn is committed to diversity and equal opportunities. It is certified as a family-friendly university. Its goal is to increase the proportion of women in areas where women are underrepresented and to promote their careers in particular. It therefore strongly encourages suitably qualified women to apply. Applications will be treated in accordance with the State Equality Act. Applications from suitable candidates with proven severe disabilities and persons of equal status are particularly welcome. If you are interested in this position, please send your complete and informative application documents by 17 February 2026, quoting the reference number PhenoRob2/CP5, exclusively in a PDF file by email to c.scherber@leibniz-lib.de for technical reasons. For further information, please contact Prof. Dr. Christoph Scherber (c.scherber@leibniz-lib.de). The University of Bonn is an international research university offering a wide range of subjects. With 200 yearsof history, around 31,500 students, more than 6,000 employees and an excellent reputation both at home andabroad, the University of Bonn is one of Germany's most important universities and has been designated a University of Excellence. The Leibniz Institute for the Analysis of Biodiversity Change (LIB) is one of the large, globally networked research museums of the Leibniz Association. In addition to excellent research on biological diversity and its change, we are driving forward the further development of our extensive scientific collections with an international team and state-of-the-art technology. Stiftung Leibniz-Institut zur Analyse des Biodiversitätswandels Postanschrift: Adenauerallee 127, 53113 Bonn, Germany Stiftung des öffentlichen Rechts; Generaldirektion: Prof. Dr. Bernhard Misof (Generaldirektor), Adrian Grüter (Kaufm. Geschäftsführer) Sitz der Stiftung: Adenauerallee 160 in Bonn Vorsitzender des Stiftungsrates: Dr. Michael H. Wappelhorst Meusemann Karen (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to golding@mcmaster.ca) ********************Other******************** Dear Prof. Golding, I'd like to share a brief announcement on EvolDir to invite collaborators for a new Thermal Ecology Alliance project: "Thermal Strategies in a Cosmopolitan Plant", using Bidens pilosa as a model to test how temperature (cold and heat) shapes life-history, functional traits, and thermal performance across globally distributed populations. The project is designed to be simple and accessible (short life cycle; small plants; basic controlled chambers/BODs; flexible participation). I'm especially hoping to reach collaborators across a wide range of climates, latitudes, elevations, and anthropogenic contexts. Project link: https://www.thermalecologyalliance.org/projects, clicking on the referred project Best regards, Cleber Chaves Cleber J. N. Chaves Postdoc fellow Department of Plant Biology University of Campinas (UNICAMP) - Brazil https://cleberchaves.wixsite.com/website Cleber Chaves (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to golding@mcmaster.ca) ********************PostDocs******************** Postdoctoral Researcher in Statistical Ecology and Evolution Project: Statistical modelling the Evolution of Sex-Specific Differences in Life History and Immunity Supervisors: Dr. Elina Numminen, Faculty of Science, University of Helsinki, and Dr. Piret Avila Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki We are looking for a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to develop statistical models and analyses to combine theoretical ecology predictions and empirical data on the evolution of sex-specific differences in immunity and life history traits. As we intend to conduct interviews also during the application period, we appreciate receiving your application as soon as possible. However, it is possible to apply until February 28, 2026 (at 23:59 UTC +2). The ideal starting date is from March 2026 onwards, and preferably by September 2026. The position involves developing and fitting models on natural selection shaping sex-specific immune strategies to the related empirical datasets of various kinds and from various sources. For this, novel statistical approaches for assessing hypotheses, comparing models and combining different types of data are developed. This position is part of the interdisciplinary consortium at the University of Helsinki, Sex Differences in Immunity, led by Dr. Avila, which brings together researchers across evolutionary biology, immunology, genomics, demography, and statistics to bridge evolutionary and mechanistic explanations of sex differences in immunity. WHAT WE OFFER - A fully-funded 3-year position at the Department of Mathematics and Statistics of the University of Helsinki (Kumpula campus) - An opportunity to conduct research as part of a vibrant interdisciplinary consortium, using statistical models to bridge evolutionary theory with immunology, genomics, and demography - Collaboration across disciplines, with research visits to leading groups in the field - Funding for attending international conferences to build your scientific network - A starting salary of 3800-4000 euros/month depending on the appointees' qualifications and experience - Access to excellent resources and professional development opportunities - Occupational health care, flexible working hours, and an opportunity for 6 weeks of paid annual leave - Support for internationally recruited employees with their transition to work and live in Finland - Academic community that promotes diversity, international engagement and equality. We encourage all qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply for our positions. YOUR PROFILE - PhD in statistics, mathematics, biology, evolutionary anthropology or a related field - Strong background in statistical and mathematical modelling and in the analysis of real-world datasets - Experience in interdisciplinarity and good collaboration skills - Ability to develop and pursue independent research questions - Fluent English skills APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS Applications shall be submitted through the University of Helsinki´s recruitment system and include the following documents: - A CV, including a list of publications - An application letter describing your suitability for the position and motivation to apply for it (max. 2 pages) - Contact information of two person who are willing to provide a reference letter upon request The application deadline is February 28, 2026 (at 23:59 UTC +2). ADDITIONAL INFORMATION - About the position: Dr. Elina Numminen, elina.numminen@helsinki.fi - Recruitment system: recruitment@helsinki.fi - Department of Mathematics and Statistics: https://www.helsinki.fi/en/faculty-science/faculty/mathematics-and-statistics - Kumpula Campus: https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/visit-us/campuses/kumpula-campus - Why University of Helsinki: https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/careers/why-university-helsinki - 10 reasons to work in Helsinki: https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/careers/why-university-helsinki/why-helsinki "Numminen, S Elina" (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to golding@mcmaster.ca) ********************PostDocs******************** Postdoctoral Research Associate on adaptation to captivity conditions Job reference: MED397426 Application deadline: February 26, 2026 A Postdoctoral Research Associate position is available in Dr. Ylenia Chiari's research team in the School of Life Sciences at the University of Nottingham (UK) to work on a funded research project supported by Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks (MFWP). The project aims to investigate the role of epigenetic signatures in adaptation to captivity, with direct conservation applications for aquaculture and conservation, and the potential to advance fundamental understanding of transgenerational epigenetic inheritance. This project is in collaboration with Mr. Matt Boyer (MFWP) and Dr. Gordon Luikart (University of Montana and Flathead Lake Biological Station). The post holder will be responsible for the day-to-day running of this programme of work as part of Dr Chiari's research team within the Cells, Organisms and Molecular Genetics (COMGen) group (https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/research/groups/cells-organisms-and-molecular-genetics/people/index.aspx). The role will primarily involve conducting bioinformatic analyses of existing RNA-sequencing and whole-genome DNA methylation datasets from wild and hatchery fish populations. Depending on securing additional funding, there may also be opportunities to carry out fieldwork in Montana (USA). We are seeking candidates with demonstrable research experience in the analysis of genomic and methylation data. Experience analyzing transcriptomic data and an interest in evolutionary biology and conservation are highly desirable. Experience working with -omic data from polyploid species is welcomed. Candidates must hold a PhD (or equivalent) in conservation genomics, evolutionary biology, or a closely related discipline. This is a full-time, fixed-term position available for a duration of 15 months. The Chiari Lab (www.yleniachiari.it) investigates the causes and consequences of morphological and physiological variation in vertebrates and conducts research in conservation biology. The lab is committed to promoting diversity and fostering a multicultural research environment, and we strongly encourage applications from researchers from underrepresented groups. Informal enquiries may be directed to Dr Ylenia Chiari at ylenia.chiari@nottingham.ac.uk. Please note that applications sent directly to this email address will not be accepted. Further details on this position and how to apply can be found here https://jobs.nottingham.ac.uk/Vacancy.aspx?ref=MED397426 The closing data for applications is February 26, 2026. The commitment of the School of Life Sciences to Equality and Diversity has been recognised in the awarding of an Athena Swan Gold Award. Ylenia Chiari, PhD Associate Professor My name is pronounced EE-len-ee-ah Kee-AH-ree (hear name) E Ylenia.Chiari@nottingham.ac.uk University of Nottingham, School of Life Sciences Life Sciences Building University Park Nottingham UK www.yleniachiari.it ChiariLab - YouTube "Ylenia Chiari (staff)" (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to golding@mcmaster.ca) ********************WorkshopsCourses******************** Dear evoldir community, We are happy to announce the workshop Women in Evolutionary Biology II that will take place at the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Biology in Pl�n , Germany from 1st to 3rd of June 2026 . We have invited 6 exceptional women, working in evolutionary biology, as keynote speakers to learn from them and celebrate their journey. Scientists of all genders and different backgrounds in evolutionary biology are welcome to participate in scientific presentations and discussion sessions on topics relevant for women in science. WOMEN IN EVOLUTIONARY BIOLOGY II WORKSHOP WHEN: 1st - 3rd June 2026 LOCATION: Pl�n, Germany Detailed information about the workshop and how to apply : https://workshops.evolbio.mpg.de/event/144/overview REGISTRATION DEADLINE: 20th February 2026 If you have any questions related to the workshop, please do not hesitate to contact us at women@evolbio.mpg.de Best wishes, Women in Evolutionary Biology II organization team Manasvi Balachandran Halley Cano Fernandez Amanda de Azevedo-Lopes Linda Kappes Stella Kyomen Rajalekshmi Narayana Sarma Women in Evolutionary Biology (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to golding@mcmaster.ca) ********************Conferences******************** Dear colleagues, We are pleased to announce the Amphioxus and Beyond Satellite Meeting at the EURO EVO DEVO Biennial Conference , continuing the tradition of the Amphioxus Satellite Meeting. The meeting will take place on 8-9 June 2026, immediately before EURO EVO DEVO 2026 in Glasgow. This satellite meeting aims to bring together researchers working on cephalochordates, echinoderms, hemichordates, tunicates, and vertebrates, with a strong focus on comparative and cross-lineage perspectives in deuterostome development, genomics, and evolution. We are delighted to announce three invited speakers: Guang Li (Xiamen University, China) Maria Ina Arnone (Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Italy) Cristian Cañestro (University of Barcelona, Spain) We invite abstracts (title + short abstract) by 31 March 2026 to amphioxusmeeting@unige.it. Please note that registration is required for both the satellite meeting and the main EURO EVO DEVO conference (early-bird deadline: 9 February 2026). For info: https://amphioxus.unige.it/ We hope to see you in Glasgow! Best regards, Marina Brasó-Vives (marina.brasovives@unil.ch) Matteo Bozzo (matteo.bozzo@unige.it) "amphioxusmeeting@unige.it" (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to golding@mcmaster.ca) ********************Conferences******************** Dear colleagues , We are pleased to announce a new edition of the Jacques Monod Conference on the ecology and evolution of host-parasite interactions. The conference, entitled Ecology and evolution of host-parasite interactions in a changing world , will take place in Roscoff (Brittany , France ) , from 2- 6 November 2026. Contributions will be organised around three main themes: (1) Abiotic stressors and the evolution of host and parasite ecological niches , (2) Predicting disease emergence: Epidemics, connectivity and evolution , (3) Evolution in multi-species interactions and ecological networks. More information about the conference, invited speakers and instructions on how to apply can be found under this link : [ https://cjm.sb-roscoff.fr/en/conference/ecology-and-evolution-host-parasite-interactions-changing-world ] The registration site is open and the deadline for applications is 6 June, 2026 . There are 7 5 slots available for participants , who will either give a short talk or present a poster. Don't hesitate to contact us if you any questions (Oliver.kaltz@umontpellier.fr, bkoskella@berkeley.edu). Looking forward to seeing you in Roscoff! Britt Koskella & Oliver Kaltz oliver.kaltz@umontpellier.fr Oliver Kaltz Directeur de Recherche CNRS Institut des Sciences de l'Evolution (ISEM) UMR 5554 (CC065) Université de Montpellier Place Eugène Bataillon 34095 Montpellier Cedex 05 France Tel. 33 (0)4 67 14 40 63 Fax 33 (0)4 67 14 40 61 ********************Conferences******************** It is our greatest pleasure to share with the evoldir community that we are organizing our annual IDEA symposium at the SMBE 2026 (June 28- July 2) Meeting in Copenhagen, Denmark. This symposium celebrates SMBE's commitment to fostering an inclusive, equitable, and diverse scientific community by addressing systemic inequities and empowering underrepresented groups in molecular biology and evolution. Please join us if you'd like to share your efforts that: Highlight community-driven efforts to increase participation and dismantle barriers.Share strategies for creating inclusive scientific environments. Advance diversity, equity, and accessibility in molecular biology and related fields.Explore education-focused initiatives. The symposium will close with an interactive discussion to share practices, celebrate achievements, and inspire change. Submission Deadline:The deadline is soon, February 3rd Link:https://smbe2026.org/symposia/ We look forward to your contributions! SMBEIDEA Taskforce SMBE IDEA taskforce (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to golding@mcmaster.ca)