The Faculty of Natural Sciences, Institute of Biology, at Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg is seeking to fill a Doctoral Research Associate (PhD position) (m-f-d, Wissenschaftliche*r Mitarbeiter*in, salary level E 13 TV-L, 65%) for a fixed term of 3 years.Application deadline 31.01.2026. Job description: We are looking for a research associate (PhD candidate) for a project aimed at understanding the extent to which the origin of eusociality in the socially variable halictid bees is ascribable to changes in gene regulatory mechanisms. The successful candidate will join the dynamic and diverse research group of Prof. Robert Paxton (http://www.zoologie.uni-halle.de/allgemeine_zoologie/research/) and work under the supervision of Dr. Antonella Soro (https://www.zoologie.uni-halle.de/allgemeine_zoologie/staff/antonella_soro/) in close and direct collaboration with PD Dr. Sonja Grath at the LMU Munich University (https://www.lsm.bio.lmu.de/faculty/current-members/grath/index.html). This is one of several projects focusing on genetic innovations in insects, which will be carried out across Germany as part of the DFG funded Priority Programme 'Genomic Basis of Evolutionary Innovations' (GEvol) (http://www.g-evol.com). The main aim of GEvol is to collaboratively and interdisciplinarily exploit new computational and OMICS methods to investigate mechanisms of genome evolution in the insects through comparative genomics. Being part of this priority program will offer the successful candidate excellent opportunities for networking with leading institutes in evolutionary biology in Germany and abroad and for direct collaboration. The research of this specific project includes fieldwork in Germany and the Czech Republic as well as the use of several state-of-the-art high-throughput sequencing techniques (RNA-Seq, ATAC-Seq, Cut&Tag, Enzyme-Methyl-seq) and their corresponding computational approaches. Furthermore, we expect the candidate to be engaged in the preparation of publications as well as the supervision of BSc and MSc students. This position is tied to working towards a doctorate. Requirements: A strong interest in fundamental evolutionary questions such as the evolution of eusociality, and a strong knowledge of basic molecular techniques are essential. More specifically: · BSc/MSc in Biology or related subject · Solid understanding of molecular biology · Basic bioinformatics skills. Familiarity with computer languages (R, Python, bash) and Linux environment is an advantage · Experience in designing and carrying out experiments with insects in the field · Excellent skills in speaking and writing in English · Social competence when working in a group · Possession of a driving licence is an advantage We offer: · public service employment with remuneration according to the Tarifvertrag der Länder (TV-L) ('Collective Agreement for the Public Service') including an annual special payment and a company pension · a secure job with attractive working conditions (home office, flexible working hours, and variable part-time models) · 30 days of annual vacation plus additional days off on December 24 and 31 · a family-friendly, diversity-oriented, and intercultural work environment at a certified family-oriented university, including holiday childcare · comprehensive staff development throughout all career stages with diverse training and qualification opportunities · a health management framework to promote and maintain good health, as well as a broad university sports program · the opportunity to participate in diverse social communities (e.g. university sports teams, university choir or university orchestra) · exciting events such as the Lange Nacht der Wissenschaften (Long Night of the Sciences), University Information Day, and the University Winter Ball · reduced-price meals in the cafeterias of the Studentenwerk (Student Services) Halle > Applications from disabled persons, including those of equal status (as certified by the Bundesagentur für Arbeit / Federal Employment Agency), will be given preferential consideration if they are equally suitable and qualified. Women are strongly encouraged to apply. Applications from individuals of all nationalities are explicitly welcome. Applicants with a degree that was not obtained at a German university must submit a Statement of Comparability for Foreign Higher Education Qualifications from the Central Office for Foreign Education (ZAB) (https://www.kmk.org/zab/central-office-for-foreign-education) as proof of equivalence upon conclusion of the employment contract. You can find ways to apply for a financial grant for this under: . If you have any questions, please contact Dr. Antonella Soro, Tel.: 0345 55-26504, Email: antonella.soro@zoologie.uni-halle.de. Please send your application, including Reg. No.: 5-12309/25-D, per email (antonella.soro@zoologie.uni-halle.de) as a single PDF file (we cannot consider other file formats) by the 31st of January 2026. As subject, please use: "PhD application-GEvol-your name". Applications should include a cover letter explaining your interests in the PhD position, the contact details of three academic referees and the usual documents (a CV, a digital copy of MSc/Diploma certificates and transcript of records). This job posting is subject to potential budgetary restrictions. Application costs will not be reimbursed by Martin Luther University. Antonella Soro (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to golding@mcmaster.ca)