********************GradStudentPositions******************** We have *four* fully funded PhD studentships available in the Centre for Research in Animal Behaviour, University of Exeter (UK), to start in September 2026: "Weaponry and aggression in wild fiddler crabs" (NERC GW4+ award, application deadline 8 January 2026) Supervisors: Tim Fawcett, Safi Darden, Martin How https://www.exeter.ac.uk/study/funding/award/?id=5758 "From bees to physics: insect nests as active matter systems" (EPSRC award, application deadline 12 January 2026) Supervisors: Natalie Hempel de Ibarra (n.hempel@exeter.ac.uk), David Horsell, Steven Hepplestone, Matt Eames https://www.exeter.ac.uk/v8media/recruitmentsites/documents/studentshipprojects/From_bees_to_physics_insect_nests_as_active_matter_systems_-_Hempel_de_Ibarra_-_Psychology.pdf "The emotional basis of behaviour" (EPSRC award, application deadline 12 January 2026) Supervisors: Tim Fawcett, Danny Williamson, Andy Higginson https://www.exeter.ac.uk/v8media/recruitmentsites/documents/studentshipprojects/The_emotional_basis_of_behaviour_-_Fawcett_-_Psychology-1.pdf "AI and computer vision for high-throughput behavioural monitoring in wild killer whales" (EPSRC award, application deadline 12 January 2026) Supervisors: Darren Croft, Sam Ellis, Daniel Franks, Stephanie King, Michael Weiss, Nishan De Silva https://www.exeter.ac.uk/v8media/recruitmentsites/documents/studentshipprojects/AI_and_Computer_Vision_for_High-Throughput_Behavioural_Monitoring_in_Wild_Killer_Whales_-_Croft_-_Psychology-1.pdf Please visit the links for further details and contact information. "Fawcett, Tim" (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to golding@mcmaster.ca) ********************GradStudentPositions******************** Graduate position in freshwater fish evolution The Mandeville Lab at Northern Michigan University is recruiting a MS student to work on the evolutionary genomics of freshwater fish (start date fall 2026). Research in our lab focuses on how evolutionary processes shape freshwater fish biodiversity. Specific project topic will depend on the interests of the successful candidate, but possible focus areas include hybridization, effects of anthropogenic disturbance, population connectivity, and the evolution of fish sex determination mechanisms. We work on many different groups of freshwater fish, including but not limited to suckers, whitefish, dace, and leuciscid minnows. Please see our lab website for additional information and recent publications: https://lizmandeville.github.io. Candidates interested in evolution, fish biology, ecology, genetics, conservation, or related fields are encouraged to apply. Desired qualifications include strong writing skills, excellent critical thinking, and the ability to balance working independently and collaboratively. All projects will involve analysis of high resolution genomic data, requiring computational approaches and high performance computing. No prior computational experience is required, but applicants without previous experience must be enthusiastic about building their computational skills. The Mandeville Lab is an inclusive environment that supports researchers with diverse identities, and encourages applications from students who are members of historically excluded groups. NMU is located in Marquette, Michigan, in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Marquette is a small but vibrant city on the southern shore of Lake Superior, located close to beautiful natural areas. It's a great place to live and work, and the proximity to many of our field sites enables us to do satisfying work integrating ecological and evolutionary questions. To apply, please send a letter of interest, CV, transcript (unofficial is fine), and contact in- formation for three references to Dr. Liz Mandeville, lmandevi@nmu.edu. Review of applications will begin immediately, and will continue until a suitable candidate is identified. Please apply by Dec. 15 for full consideration. Liz Mandeville (she/her) Associate Professor Biology Department Northern Michigan University 1401 Presque Isle Ave. Marquette, MI 49855 USA https://lizmandeville.github.io lmandevi@nmu.edu Liz Mandeville (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to golding@mcmaster.ca) ********************GradStudentPositions******************** PhD position:molecular mechanisms mediating gut microbiome-host interactions? A 3-year Doctoral Researcher position is available at the Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Jyv�skyl�, Finland, in the group of Dr. Suvi Ruuskanen. The Doctoral Researcher will work in an ERC-funded project where the overarching aim is to understand the significance of the gut microbiome in thermal adaptations in birds within and across generations, and species.Starting date is April 1, 2026 or as mutually agreed. PROJECT DESCRIPTION All animals on our planet carry microorganisms in their gut. The gut microbiome has recently been shown to be strongly linked to health in humans and model animals, and potentially playing a role in adapting to environmental changes. For example, studies in vertebrate and invertebrate model organisms, and our own data on wild birds suggest that the microbiome changes with temperature, and there is proof-of-concept data that this compositional shift in the microbiome occurs as an adaptive response to cold exposure, leading to changes in thermal physiology. However, most data up to date only considers the identities of gut microbes, not their functions and therefore the underlying molecular mechanisms of the microbiome-host communication are less understood. In this project the student will study the functional changes in gut microbiome in response to environmental and host physiological changes, aiming to shed light on the molecular mechanisms mediating host-microbiome interactions. One focus is on metabolomics profiles, and the student is also developing novel measurements on bacterial vesicles and their content in birds. Lots of samples have already been collected from previous experiments, but the student is expected also to contribute to sample and data collection using Japanese quail animal models. DUTIES The doctoral researcher position will involve laboratory analyses (most likely metabolomics, bacterial vesicles), conducting data and sample collection on Japanese quails, data analyses, and manuscript preparation and presentations. The exact questions can be tailored following interests of the candidate. Apply between 27 October 2025and 20 December 2025 23:59 (Europe/Helsinki) Who we are looking for Suitable candidates should have a MSc in cellular or molecular biology, evolutionary biology, microbiology, or related field by the time of starting the position The candidate should have strong laboratory skills, some experience in statistics and bioinformatics and interest in host-microbiome research We are seeking a highly motivated, innovative, productive person, who will contribute intellectually to project development. The tasks of a Doctoral Researcher focus on research aiming at the completion of a doctoral thesis, doctoral studies, assisting teaching tasks, and other related tasks to these.The duties, qualification requirements, and the language skills of Doctoral Researchers are stipulated by the University of Jyv�skyl� Regulations and language skills guidelines(Doctoral Students). A good command of English is required. A trial period of six months will be used in the beginning of the employment. The eligible candidate has, or is about to obtain, a suitable Master's degree. In addition, the Doctoral Researcher must havea permission for post-graduate studies at the University of Jyv�skyl�. After selection, the selected person must apply for postgraduate study rights through a separate application processat the Faculty of Mathematics and Science if they do not already have them. Benefits Funding for 3 years in the doctoral program of the University of Jyv�skyl�. Supervision in all aspects of the work, possibility to join workshops to improve specific skills International, enthusiastic working environment (working language is English) in a friendly research group with a large collaborator network. Excellent research infrastructure at Jyv�skyl� (incl Konnevesi research station), labs and state-of-the-art scientific equipment, software, access to journals and scientific databases. Resources for travel to conferences or workshops abroad. The Doctoral Researcher will be supervised by Associate Prof. Suvi Ruuskanen, Dr. Lisandrina Mari and Prof Phill Watts (University of Jyv�skyl�), and for example with collaborating with Justus Reunanen (University of Oulu). At the University of Jyv�skyl�, you are a recognized member of our community with a unique opportunity to influence international research. You get to participate in our international and multidisciplinary community where the welfare of each individual is important. At the University of Jyv�skyl�, we offer a great and lively campus area with opportunities to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle. Finland has a high standard of living, with free schooling (also in English), affordable childcare, good family benefits, and healthcare. Jyv�skyl� is located in central Finland in the Finnish lakeland and has excellent opportunities for different nature, outdoor, and sports activities. The city of Jyv�skyl� is a major educational center and the city has a large student population. As such there is a vibrant cultural scene in the city. To find useful information about the University of Jyv�skyl�, the City of Jyv�skyl� and living in Finland, see the University's International Staff Guide. The initial annual salary will be approximately 31,000 EUR (gross income, including a holiday bonus). With progress of the thesis work, the salary will be revised in accordance withthe Collective Agreement of Finnish Universities. How to apply? The application documents that should be included in English and in PDF format: A two-page long Curriculum vitae, composed according to good scientific practice and considering the template for researcher�s curriculum vitae by The Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrityand including contact information of two academics who can provide reference letters Max 2-page motivation letter including a statement of research interests and reasons for applying Relevant certificates / diplomas (or date of completion the MSc) A numbered list of publications, if any Applications should be submitted via the University of Jyv�skyl� online application form byDecember 20, 2025. Applications sent via email are not considered. For further information, please contactAssociate Professor Suvi Ruuskanen, suvi.k.ruuskanen@jyu.fi. The Environmental Physiology lab (Environmental Physiology Lab | University of Jyv�skyl� (jyu.fi), led by Suvi Ruuskanen, research fields are at the intersection of environmental sciences, ecotoxicology and physiological, behavioural and molecular ecology, thus we are integrative biologists. We are broadly interested in the molecular and physiological mechanisms underlying organismal adaptation to environmental changes. These include, for example, physiology of stress and energetics, epigenetic and microbiome-mediated mechanisms. We also have passion for understanding transgenerational and developmental plasticity. We offer good working conditions for researchers and promote the principles of HR Excellence in Research, HRS4R. The Human Resources Strategy for Researchers (HRS4R) is based on the values of the European Charter for Researchers & The Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers(Charter & Code). JYU is committed to fairness, consistency and transparency in selection decisions, and undertakes the recommendations for the responsible evaluation of a researcher in Finland. JYU has signed the DORA Declaration. By signing the agreement, JYU is committed to complying with the CoARAprinciples. Our application process is transparent, professional and international. We communicate openly with the applicants throughout the recruitment process. All appointment decisions are based on careful consideration within the faculty. We value equality and diversity in our work community and encourage qualified applicants, regardless of background, to apply for this position. Department of Biological and Environmental Science The research in the Department of Biological and Environmental Sciencefocuses on three core areas: evolutionary biology, natural resources and environment, and biological nanoscience. The Department building, Ambiotica, is an integral part of the University of Jyv�skyl�'s Ylist�nrinne Mathematics and Science Research Complex, which includes buildings of chemistry, physics and nanoscience. Ambiotica houses high quality laboratories for bioscience and experimental facilities for a wide range of biological and chemical analyses as well as highly motivated laboratory personnel. The University of Jyv�skyl�is a human-centered environment of 2,500 experts and 14,500 students. Our goal is to create wisdom and wellbeing for all. JYU's naturally beautiful campus is located in the heart of the city of Jyv�skyl�.JYU is the third largest employer in Central Finland. Suvi Ruuskanen Associate Professor in Environmental Physiology Department of Biological and Environmental Science University of Jyv�skyl�, Finland Adjunct professor, visiting researcher Department of Biology University of Turku, Finland Mobile +358503256547 Environmental Physiology Lab | University of Jyv�skyl� (jyu.fi) suviruuskanen.bsky.social "Ruuskanen, Suvi" (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to golding@mcmaster.ca) ********************Jobs******************** For the Senckenberg Museum of Natural History in Görlitz, the Senckenberg Gesellschaft für Naturforschung headquartered in Frankfurt (Main) is seeking to fill the following position Research Scientist and Curator (m/f/d) of the section Myriapoda (Tenure-Track) Location: Goerlitz, Saxony Employment scope: full-time (40 hours/week) / part-time is possible Type of contract: the contract shall start ideally from June 1st 2026. The position is initially limited. The type of time limitation depends on individual profile and legal framework (maximum 6 years). A later permanent employment (Tenure Track) is intended after a positive evaluation. Remuneration: collective agreement of the German Länder, TV-L E 13 (for more information please see: https://oeffentlicher-dienst.info/c/t/rechner/tv-l/allg?id=tv-l-2025&matrix=1) Founded in 1817, the Senckenberg Gesellschaft für Naturforschung (SGN) is one of the world's major research institutions in the field of biodiversity. At our twelve sites in Germany, scientists from over 40 nations conduct cutting-edge research at an international level. At the Görlitz site, the renowned Senckenberg Museum of Natural History is located in a historic town with a region that is particularly close to nature and well worth living in. Senckenberg is committed to study the causes and effects of biodiversity loss in the Anthropocene. As part of our strategic development, we launched an ambitious long-term research effort in "Anthropocene Biodiversity Loss" encompassing the modules "Collectomics", "Biodiversity Genomics", and "Solution Labs". Objectives include the transformation of natural history collections into the digital era, studying biodiversity from the genome to the ecosystem levels and offering exploratory spaces for science and society to develop common solutions to Anthropocene challenges. Within this research effort, Senckenberg takes innovative steps in collection-based research and data science. The objective of "Collectomics" is to make current and future natural history collections digitally accessible and to improve integration and collaboration across regions, collections, and disciplines. This will enable broader, more holistic biodiversity research, for the benefit of people and nature. Your Tasks Scientific and personnel management of the Myriapoda section, including one technical assistant, third-party funded scientific personnel and volunteers Scientific curation and development of "Myriapoda" collection of the Soil Zoology department Collection-based research on the taxonomy, biology or (community) ecology of Myriapoda Publication of research results in high-ranking peer-reviewed international scientific journals Acquisition of third-party research funding Initiation and management of research projects and active participation in joint projects of the Soil Zoology department and beyond Establishment of collaborations with other national and international working groups, including other Senckenberg departments in Görlitz and across Germany Participation in the Management Board of Edaphobase, the international database on soil biodiversity Participation in the Editorial Board of the scientific journal Soil Organisms Participation in academic teaching at the MSc level programs of Dresden University of Technology Your Profile Doctoral degree in zoology or a related field Excellent knowledge of integrative taxonomy and systematics of Myriapoda Deep knowledge and work experience in the fields of soil ecology, taxonomy and community- and species-level ecology of Myriapoda Experience with scientific curation, management and development of invertebrate collections Experience in guiding staff, (post-graduate) students, or entire workgroups Outstanding research record in biology of soil animals, documented by publications in international peer-reviewed scientific journals Motivation, commitment and the ability to develop and implement own research ideas documented by publications and projects independent from PhD and master supervisors Experience in working in international teams Experience in the acquisition of third-party funding and project management Fluency in English both spoken and written Desirable skills Excellent knowledge of integrative taxonomy and systematics and/or community and species level ecology of Diplopoda and/or Chilopoda Knowledge of the Central European and Palearctic Myriapoda fauna Knowledge in research data management and databases Experience in participation in scientific committees Experience in academic teaching Good knowledge of German or willingness to learn German We offer Access to an international network of scientists, policymakers and research organizations An attractive job within the inspired and dynamic working environment of an internationally recognized research institution Flexible working hours - mobile working options - employee ID card with free admission to Senckenberg museums - annual special payment - collectively agreed vacation entitlement - company pension plan Senckenberg is committed to diversity. We benefit from the different expertise, perspectives and personalities of our staff and welcome every application from qualified candidates, irrespective of age, gender, ethnic or cultural origin, religion and ideology, sexual orientation and identity or disability. Women are particularly encouraged to apply as they are underrepresented in the field of this position; in the case of equal qualifications and suitability, they will be given preference. Applicants with a severe disability will be given special consideration in case of equal suitability. Senckenberg actively supports the compatibility of work and family and places great emphasis on an equal and inclusive work culture. How to apply? Please send your application (cover letter detailing your research foci and experience, your CV, copies of your certificates of academic achievements, list of publications as well as letter(s) of recommendation, if available) electronically (as a single PDF) to recruiting@senckenberg.de stating the reference #08-25023 by 14th January 2026, or apply online. Senckenberg Gesellschaft für Naturforschung Senckenberganlage 25 60325 Frankfurt am Main E-Mail: recruiting@senckenberg.de For specific questions about this role, please contact Prof. Dr. Anton Potapov at anton.potapov@senckenberg.de. Join us in advancing ecological research through innovative technology! We look forward to your application! For data protection information on the processing of personal data as part of the application and selection process, please refer to the privacy policy on our homepage at https://www.senckenberg.de/en/imprint/. For further information about the Senckenberg Gesellschaft für Naturforschung please visit https://www.senckenberg.de Yours sincerely Isabel Gajèeviæ, M.A. Referentin Recruiting/HR Department & Personalmarketing E-Mail: recruiting@senckenberg.de Telefon/Phone: 0049 (0)69 / 7542 - Recruiting/HR Department & Personalmarketing - 1478 Gajcevic, Isabel - 1309 Heinrichsohn, Sabine - 1566 John, Alexandra - 1564 di Biase, Maria Fax: 0049 (0)69 / 7542-1445 Mail: recruiting@senckenberg.de Senckenberg Gesellschaft für Naturforschung Rechtsfähiger Verein gemäß § 22 BGB Mitglied der Leibniz-Gemeinschaft Direktorium/Impressum Vernetzen Sie sich mit uns:www.senckenberg.de/socialmedia "recruiting@senckenberg.de" (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to golding@mcmaster.ca) ********************PostDocs******************** We invite applications for a postdoc position within the project "The influence of ecological factors on the quiescent state: from the characteristics of individual eukaryotic cells to population dynamics", funded by the Polish National Science Centre (NCN) OPUS grant. About the Project Background information: Quiescence (Q) is a fundamental survival state in eukaryotic cells, allowing organisms to persist under starvation conditions. The project aims to explore the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying quiescent state variability and its impact on adaptation, antifungal resistance, and population dynamics. The project investigates how individual quiescent cells reorganize their internal structures and how these changes influence population-level survival, stress tolerance, and adaptation. Main questions are: What structural and metabolic changes occur in single quiescent cells over time, and how do they impact survival and regrowth? How do different quiescent phenotypes respond to antifungal treatments, and what are the mechanisms of resistance? How does population density affect quiescence-related survival strategies, and how the Allee Effect influence quiescent cell fitness? What evolutionary trade-offs exist between quiescence depth, regrowth potential, and stress resistance? About the Position The Postdoctoral researcher will focus on developing and applying advanced microscopy, microfluidics, and single-cell analysis techniques to investigate quiescence mainly at the individual cell level. The candidate will: * Characterize cytoskeletal, mitochondrial, and metabolic changes in quiescent cells. * Conduct live-cell imaging experiments to monitor quiescent cell aging and reactivation dynamics. * Investigate antifungal resistance mechanisms in quiescent yeast populations. * Collaborate with international partners to integrate advanced imaging and microfluidic technologies into the research workflow. * Contribute to mathematical modelling efforts linking single-cell characteristics to population-level dynamics. Host Institution & Location The PhD student will be based at the Institute of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Biology of the Jagiellonian University in Kraków, Poland - one of the leading research institutes in Ecology and Evolution in Central Europe (www.eko.uj.edu.pl/en_GB). Kraków is a vibrant city with a rich cultural scene (European City of Culture 2000), hosting over 100 festivals and numerous cultural events annually. The city offers modern museums, theaters, cinemas, restaurants, and excellent access to outdoor activities such as hiking and biking. It is also well-connected to other European cities. Founding & Salary The position is for 4 years (after successful 1 year probation) and the salary is 140k PLN/year before tax. To estimate living costs in Kraków, applicants can use tools such as Numbeo (www.numbeo.com). Requirements * Hold a doctoral degree in an appropriate field (exact and natural sciences) obtained no earlier than seven years before 1st January 2026 (extensions possible, e.g., due to parental leave); and not obtained at the Jagiellonian University * Documented track record of scientific publications in peer- reviewed journals. * Proven experience in fluorescence microscopy, image analysis, and/or preferably microfluidic single-cell analysis techniques. * Motivation to initiate and grow a microfluidics research laboratory. * Strong analytical skills, combined with the ability to work independently while effectively coordinating and communicating within a multidisciplinary team. * Fluency in written and spoken English, as well as communication and organisational skills. * Readiness to collaborate with international research groups and to undertake short research stays abroad. * Willingness to mentor Ph.D. and Master's students within the laboratory. Deadline & Selection Process If interested, please send a cover letter explaining your background, skills, and interest in the project, CV, and contact information of two academics willing to provide references to dr hab. Dominika W³och-Salamon, Prof. UJ (dominika.wloch-salamon@uj.edu.pl). Review of applications is ongoing; apply by 22nd December, 2025 to ensure full consideration. The start date of the position is as soon as possible in 2026. We look forward to receiving your application! dr hab. Dominika W³och-Salamon prof. UJ Instytut Nauk o Œrodowisku/ Institute of Environmental Sciences Uniwersytet Jagielloñski/ Jagiellonian University + 48 12 664-51-35 ul. Gronostajowa 7; 30-387 Kraków ORCID: 0000-0002-0040-1838 "Science and everyday life cannot and should not be separated." Rosalind Franklin Dominika W³och-Salamon (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to golding@mcmaster.ca) ********************PostDocs******************** POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCH ASSOCIATES ("Wissenschaftlicher Mitarbeiter") We encourage potentially interested candidates to apply for a core project of the Germany-wide GEvol consortium (https://g-evol.uni-muenster.de/) on comparative evolutionary genomics [Job Advert]. The project aims at developing cutting edge methods for accurate functional annotation of novel [1, 2] and de novo expressed genes [3] and other rare genomic elements using machine learning techniques. The project will be based on a combination of bioinformatics methods and further recently developed methods such as Tiberius [1], Galba [2] and BRAKER [3]. Testing and application of the newly to be developed methods shall be done in close collaboration with other members of the GEvol consortium. The project will be supervised in close collaboration between the groups Dr. Katharina Hoff in Greifswald and Prof. Erich Bornberg-Bauer in Münster with primary location to be determined. Interested candidates should have: * strong programming skills * a proven record of having worked on analysing large data sets * hold a PhD in natural sciences, computer science or closely related areas * good communication skills in English language Advantageous skills: * experience analysing biological data sets * experience using machine learning methods * a proven record of original publications in international journals * international experience Applications 2-page format as described [here] and be sent as .pdf to ebb.admin@wwu.de no later than January 6th, 2026. Literature: [1] https://doi.org/10.1101/2025.04.17.649312 [2] https://doi.org/10.1093/bioinformatics/btaf539 [3] https://doi.org/10.1002/jez.b.23297. [4] https://doi.org/10.1093/bioinformatics/btae685 [5] https://doi.org/10.1101/2023.04.10.536199 [6] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37398387/ More GEvol related positions can be found at https://g-evol.uni-muenster.de/open-positions/. Anna Kersting (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to golding@mcmaster.ca)