Are you passionate about evolutionary biology, genomics, and bioinformatics? The University of Göttingen in Germany is inviting applications for 11 fully funded PhD positions in its renowned Graduate Research Training Group (GRK 2984): “Evolutionary Genomics – Consequences of Biodiverse Reproduction Systems.” These positions start on January 1, 2026, and offer a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of evolutionary genomics research.
🔍 Program Overview: Evolutionary Genomics – GRK 2984
The GRK 2984 doctoral program focuses on the evolution of genomes in organisms with diverse reproduction strategies—sexual, asexual, and beyond. As a PhD candidate, you will explore major evolutionary questions while using high-throughput genomics, bioinformatic tools, and advanced statistical methods.
🎯 Key Research Topics Include:
- The paradox of sex in evolution
- Genome erosion and adaptive functions in asexual organisms
- Interactions between nuclear and organelle genomes
- Horizontal gene transfer via viral vectors (prokaryotes and eukaryotes)
- Development of novel genome architecture models
📅 PhD Program Details
- Start Date: January 1, 2026
- Duration: 3 years (extendable until December 31, 2029)
- Funding: Fully funded (TV-L E13/65% salary under German public sector pay scale)
- Location: University of Göttingen, Germany
These PhD roles are designed as qualification positions and are part of Germany’s publicly funded research sector, ensuring financial stability and academic support.
👨🔬 Who Should Apply?
The program is ideal for aspiring researchers from diverse backgrounds and all genders who meet the following requirements:
- Master’s degree in Biology, preferably with a focus on evolutionary genomics
- Hands-on experience in molecular lab techniques, bioinformatics, or genomic data analysis
- Strong conceptual knowledge of reproductive system evolution
- English proficiency (minimum C1 level)
- Collaborative attitude and cross-disciplinary mindset
🌍 What the Program Offers
This PhD opportunity is more than just a research position—it’s a complete academic development journey. Highlights include:
- Access to National High-Performance Computing (NHR) resources
- Integration with AI-driven research platforms
- Regular workshops, seminars, and international conferences
- Teaching and mentorship opportunities
- Supportive, family-friendly work environment
- Inclusive policies promoting gender equality and support for researchers with disabilities
📌 How to Apply: Documents & Deadline
Application Deadline: September 1, 2025
Prepare and upload the following documents in a single PDF file:
- Motivation letter (mention up to three preferred PhD projects)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- English language proficiency certificate (C1 minimum)
- List of scientific publications (if any)
👉 Submit your application online via the official portal: Apply Here
📩 For inquiries, contact:
Prof. Elvira Hörandl
Email: elvira.hoerandl@biologie.uni-goettingen.de
Phone: +49 551 39 28540
🔐 Data Privacy and GDPR Compliance
By applying, you agree to the GDPR-compliant processing of personal data. Please refer to the university’s data protection policy for full details.
🌱 Start Your Evolutionary Genomics Journey in Germany
This prestigious PhD program at the University of Göttingen is your gateway to an international research career in evolutionary biology, genome science, and computational biology. Whether you’re intrigued by sexual reproduction strategies, horizontal gene flow, or genome evolution, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to work with global experts in one of Europe’s top-ranked research institutions.
Apply now and help shape the future of evolutionary genomics.