PhD Position in Rapid Evolution in Biological Communities

**PhD Studentship in Eco-Evolutionary Dynamics and Population Genetics** **Position Overview** We invite exceptional candidates for a four-year PhD Studentship funded by an ERC grant to explore cutting-edge questions at the intersection of population genetics and community ecology. **Institution:** Biology Centre CAS, Institute of Entomology, Czech Republic **Department:** Department of Ecology **Laboratory:** Laboratory of Experimental Ecology **Employment Type:** Fixed-term research position (Part-time) **Start Date:** March 1, 2026 **Application Deadline:** January 7, 2026 **Education Required:** Master's Degree or equivalent **Research Focus** Evolution can be remarkably rapid, with critical traits changing within just a few generations. However, we are only beginning to understand how these eco-evolutionary processes affect host-parasite interaction dynamics and entire community stability. Our research investigates how rapid evolution impacts diversity maintenance in communities and genetic variation preservation in populations—processes traditionally studied in isolation. **Project Description** This collaborative project utilizes an innovative experimental community model system featuring wild Drosophila species and their parasitoids from tropical Australia. Through multigenerational laboratory microcosm experiments, we track eco-evolutionary dynamics with exceptional precision. The successful candidate will employ a multidisciplinary approach combining: - Experimental community evolution - Population genomics - Eco-evolutionary modeling Specific PhD projects will be developed through collaborative discussions between the candidate and supervisor. **Requirements** - Master's degree (required for PhD entry in Czech Republic) **Preferred Experience:** - Laboratory research experience - Background in population genetics or molecular ecology - Knowledge of eco-evolutionary dynamics or population genetic modeling **Benefits Package** - 5 weeks paid annual leave - Subsidized meals in on-site canteen - Pension insurance contribution - Health insurance and social security coverage - Student benefits for PhD candidates - Complimentary Czech language classes - Professional training and mentoring programs - Campus daycare for children (ages 1+) - Welcome services and ongoing support for international employees - English-speaking, collaborative international environment - Excellent work-life balance in a vibrant university city **Research Environment** Join the prestigious Laboratory of Experimental Ecology at the Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences. This multinational team of postdocs, PhD students, and technicians operates with substantial resources from a five-year ERC Consolidator grant, ensuring exceptional research support. The position includes opportunities for international research stays and collaboration with global partners. **Location** České Budějovice is a safe, historic city of 100,000 residents located two hours south of Prague. The city offers a relaxed atmosphere, stunning countryside, and growing international research community. The Biology Centre holds the HR Award, ensuring transparent, fair, and non-discriminatory selection processes. **Additional Information** Recent Czech legislation guarantees competitive PhD student salaries that comfortably cover living expenses. The working language is English, and candidates from all countries are encouraged to apply. International applicants receive comprehensive relocation and settlement support. To apply, submit a single document containing your motivation letter, CV, and contact details for two references through our official application portal.