Phd

Department of Evolutionary Biology
and Environmental Studies
UZH: PhD in Evolutionary Ecology
Inbreeding in a Wild Mammal System
Wild populations are increasingly exposed to demographic decline and fragmentation, making
inbreeding and its consequences a central problem in evolutionary biology and conservation. We
address this using one of the most comprehensive datasets available for any vertebrate population: a
longterm field study in Switzerland of more than 20,000 wild mice that vary naturally in degree of
inbreeding. We aim to quantify inbreeding effects on behaviour, reproductive output, survival and
morphology and relate these to genetic loci. The PhD project is embedded in a collaborative
framework with network scientists and evolutionary biologists at the University of Zurich and
at Columbia University.
We are seeking a highly motivated PhD student to join our research group at the University of Zurich
to examine the phenotypic and genetic consequences of inbreeding in a wild mammalian population.
Your responsibilities
• analyse large-scale phenotypic datasets (behaviour, life history, morphology)
• perform animal experiments on inbreeding
• develop and apply statistical models
• collaborate across disciplines (behavioural ecology, network science, genomics)
• contribute to high-quality publications
Your profile
• fascinated by fundamental questions in evolutionary biology
• MSc (or equivalent) in evolutionary biology, ecology, animal behaviour, or a related field
• training in quanOtaOve geneOcs and behavioural ecology
• evidence of analyOcal ability and scienOfic independence
• strong quanOtaOve skills, R programming, experience with large datasets
• project management, teamwork, scienOfic communicaOon and organisaOonal skills
What we offer
The University of Zurich provides an international, English-speaking research environment with
excellent infrastructure and strong interdisciplinary links. You will be embedded in an acOve and
collaboraOve research group with access to a unique long-term dataset and outstanding scienOfic
support. You will benefit from close collaboraOon with leading groups in network science and
genomics. We are commiSed to fostering an inclusive and respecTul working environment.
The position is funded for four years with a competitive salary. Zurich offers a very high quality of life
and a vibrant scientific community.
Start of employment
1 August 2026, or by agreement.
Please submit your application as a single PDF to Anna Lindholm (anna.lindholm@ieu.uzh.ch) by the
end of May 2026 including a letter of motivation, CV, academic transcripts, contact details of two
referees, and a copy of your MSc thesis, or if not completed, a short summary of it.