Are you interested in understanding global patterns of biodiversity evolution and building your career as an evolutionary biologist? We invite applications for a Ph.D. position on this topic. Project description: The project will broadly investigate how genome size and polyploidy influence the evolution of functional traits, adaptation, and diversification in angiosperms. By integrating large scale trait datasets, genomics, phylogenetics and evolutionary theories, with opportunities to work both on living collections and herbarium specimen, the project will address key questions in angiosperm macroevolution. Main activities and duties: We are looking for a highly motivated Ph.D. student with a strong interest in the diversity, evolution and ecology of angiosperms. The student will conduct research that combines the collection of trait, genome size and chromosomal data from living collections and herbarium specimen, the integration of large-scale datasets from diverse databases, and the application of cutting-edge statistical and phylogenetic comparative methods to test hypotheses in plant macroevolution.     Required qualifications Master’s degree or equivalent in Plant Sciences (Botany), Evolutionary Biology, Ecology or a related field Solid background in plant biology (e.g., systematics, evolution, cytogenomics, ecology) Strong quantitative and analytical skills, including experience with statistical analyses and programming (preferably in R or Python) Strong written and spoken English skills (language certificate not required) Desirable skills Experience in working with large datasets and databases Familiarity with phylogenetic methods and comparative approaches in evolutionary biology Experience with cytological techniques and functional trait measurement in plants Experience in fieldwork or greenhouse experiments and working with herbarium collections Comfortable working in a collaborative, international environment Prior experience in scientific writing and/or publishing is considered beneficial Applications should include: CV (with standard details, research interests, previous experiences, list of publications [if any], and contact information of two referees) Motivation letter We offer: The successful candidate will have the opportunity to receive mentorship and to develop their scientific career in evolutionary biology. You will join the newly established Plant Evolutionary Ecology group led by Dr. Sreetama Bhadra in the Department of Invasion Ecology, and work in an internationally collaborative team and friendly environment of the Department and the Institute. The Institute is well-equipped for the studies planned within the project. The contract includes benefits such as: Competitive salary Flexible working hours 25 days of vacation (when working full-time) 5 sick days (when working full-time) Lump sum meal allowance Pension scheme Selection process: Candidates will be evaluated based on their CV and other information provided. Application deadline:2 November2025 Send applications to: recruitment@ibot.cas.cz, subject “Ph.D. Student Position 1001” Starting date (negotiable):1 January 2026 Duration:1 year (with the possibility of extension) Location:Průhonice, Czech Republic Additional information:If you have any questions regarding the application, please send an informal email to Dr. Sreetama Bhadra (sreetama.bhadra@ibot.cas.cz). To apply please always use the recruitment@ibot.cas.cz email address. Bhadra Sreetama (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to golding@mcmaster.ca)