PhD Position (w/m/d, 65 %, EG 13 TV-L, 3 years)
Genetic Basis of Drought Adaptation in Brassica rapa
Institute for Plant Ecology and Evolution, Heinrich Heine University
Duesseldorf (HHU)

The Institute for Plant Ecology and Evolution invites applications for
a PhD position investigating the ecological and genetic mechanisms of
rapid adaptation to climate change. Our group combines ecological studies
and resurrection approaches with quantitative genetics and ecological
genomics to study evolutionary responses in natural plant populations
and the genetic basis of adaptive traits.

Project Description: The project examines two Californian Brassica rapa
populations that show parallel phenotypic shifts under drought but differ
genetically. Using common gardens, quantitative genetic approaches,
and genomic analyses (SNP data, GWAS,
QTL mapping), the PhD student will quantify trait variation and
covariation, identify the genetic architecture of drought-adaptive traits,
and assess how environmental and genetic factors shape trait correlations.

YOUR TASKS:
- Set up and analyze resurrection-based common garden experiments at HHU
- Process and analyze phenotypic, environmental, and genomic datasets
- Conduct GWAS, QTL mapping and quantitative genetic analyses
- Present results at conferences and publish in peer-reviewed journals
- Supervise students and contribute to teaching activities within the
institute

YOUR PROFILE:
Required
- MSc in biology, ecology, evolutionary biology, population/quantitative
genetics, or related
- Strong background in evolutionary ecology and quantitative/evolutionary
genetics
- Experience with NGS data processing or population genomic analyses
- Strong organizational, solution-focused, and team-working skills
- Excellent English communication skills
Preferred
- Experience with plant experiments (e.g., common gardens/greenhouse)
- Proficiency in statistical data analysis and programming (R, Python,
bash)
- Experience with GWAS and QTL mapping workflows
- Demonstrated scientific writing experience
- Good German skills
- Lawful ability to work in the EU

WE OFFER:
- A DFG-funded position in a growing research institute with strengths
in plant ecology, evolution, and genomics
- Potential association with TRR 341 and close links to CEPLAS
- Structured doctoral training (iGRAD, JUNO, HeRA)
- An international, supportive, and family-friendly working environment

TO APPLY:
Submit one PDF including: (i) Cover letter (max. 2 pages) outlining your
motivation and research interests; (ii) CV including publication list
and contact details of two references; (iii) BSc and MSc certificates
and transcripts.
Send applications by 30.12.2025 to elena.hamann@hhu.de, subject line:
Application PhD Genetics.
Expected starting date: March 2026 or as early as possible.

For questions contact Prof. Elena Hamann and see
https://www.plantecoevo.hhu.de.

Jun.-Prof. Dr. Elena Hamann (she/her)
Institute of Plant Ecology and Evolution
Heinrich Heine University D�sseldorf

Universit�tstrasse 1 - Building 22.07, Room 01.025
D-40225 D�sseldorf
Germany

Tel: +49-211-8115637

E-mail: Elena.hamann@hhu.de

https://www.plantecoevo.hhu.de/en/

Elena Hamann <elena.hamann@yahoo.fr>

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