Eawag, the Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, is an internationally networked aquatic research institute within the ETH Domain (Swiss Federal Institutes of Technology). Eawag conducts research, education and expert consulting to achieve the dual goals of meeting direct human needs for water and maintaining the function and integrity of aquatic ecosystems.
The Altermatt lab at the Department of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies (IEU) at University of Zurich and the Department of Aquatic Ecology at Eawag has a vacancy for a PhD-Position in Molecular Ecology and Aquatic Biodiversity (4 years).
The position is fully funded for four years, and will be based in the group of Prof. Dr. Florian Altermatt. The successful applicant will be a student of the University of Zurich and be part of the PhD Program in Ecology.
Freshwater ecosystem are among the most biodiverse, yet critically threatened ecosystems. Understanding their genetic and organismal diversity is a prerequisite for their effective management and conservation. Contemporary biodiversity at the genetic and organismal level is shaped by a combination of natural and anthropogenic drivers, such as postglacial recolonization, habitat connectivity or environmental perturbations. Up to now, most molecular or community studies focussed on a relatively small set of organisms or at small spatial scales. Here, building on a unique and very extensive dataset and complemented by own field- and laboratory work, you will be analysing genetic, functional and organismal (taxonomic) diversity of freshwater amphipods in Switzerland/Central Europe as part of a large project studying the taxonomy, biodiversity and ecosystem role of amphipods . For the genetic part, we will focus in particular on the Gammarus fossarum cryptic species complex, while for community analyses all amphipod species of Switzerland will be considered. The student is explicitly expected and encouraged to contribute to the conceptual development of the project, and to be interested in aquatic ecology in a wider sense.
For the project, we offer state-of-the-art infrastructure, including molecular laboratory facilities (for DNA barcoding and eDNA metabarcoding), field-work, and access to a unique long-term dataset of thousands of amphipod samples/sites sampled over the last 10 years. The planned research project will fit in the wider range of research conducted in the Altermatt lab, involving conceptual and experimental work on meta-ecosystems and environmental DNA (eDNA) to understand aquatic biodiversity. While not necessarily part of this project, the student is expected to build and link to these capacities and general interests of the lab.
Competitive applicants ideally have previous experience in molecular ecology, biodiversity sciences, or spatial ecology. Previous expertise and a strong interest in molecular data analysis (population genetics, barcoding analysis) are essential, including experience in molecular ecology (laboratory and bioinformatics). Candidates will be highly motivated, enthusiastic and independent persons with a passion for science. A good conceptual understanding of ecological and/or evolutionary theory and excellent laboratory skills are desired. Strong statistical skills are expected, and quantitative/theoretical interests and/or skills are an asset. Excellent communication and writing skills in English, good work ethics, and creative thinking are a must. A Masters level degree (or equivalent) in Ecology, Population Genetics, Environmental Sciences or related subject is necessary for admission. A valid car driving license is required for field work.
The Altermatt lab has a shared base at University of Zurich and at Eawag. It offers a stimulating and international research environment, excellent research facilities and a lively and social working place. The working language in the lab is English. Zurich hosts many other research groups in ecology and biodiversity research, and is among the world’s leading cities in terms of science, culture and quality of life.
For further information, consult here or directly contact Prof. Dr. Florian Altermatt. Phone: +41 58 765 55 92, E-mail: florian.altermatt@ieu.uzh.ch.
Applications must be submitted by 10th December 2023Â and should include a motivation letter with a description of pertinent experience, a complete CV (incl. publication list), the names and e-mail addresses of three academic references, and copies of certificates of academic qualifications. The application should be submitted as one single pdf-file. The position is open as of now, and the successful candidate is expected to start within the first half of 2024 the latest.
University of Zurich and Eawag are both committed to promoting diversity and equal opportunities for underrepresented minorities, and to support the compatibility of family and work. Applications from women are especially welcome.
We look forward to receiving your application through this webpage, any other way of applying will not be considered. Please click on the button below, this will take you directly to the application form.
Read more about the opportunity and apply here.