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:

1. Motivation letter (mention up to three preferred PhD projects)
2. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
3. Academic transcripts and degree certificates
4. English language proficiency certificate (C1 minimum)
5. 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.

About the PhD Program

This competitive PhD program is designed for highly motivated early-career scientists aiming to contribute to cutting-edge research on ocean floor processes and their impact on Earth’s climate, ecosystems, and carbon cycles. The initiative is a collaboration between:

• University of Bremen
• University of Oldenburg
• Alfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research
• Max Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology
• Leibniz Centre for Tropical Marine Research
• Constructor University
• Hanse-Wissenschaftskolleg – Institute for Advanced Study

Research Areas: Choose from Innovative Marine Science Topics

Applicants can apply for up to three project areas, selecting and ranking their priorities. Key research themes include:

• Carbon sequestration at the molecular level
• Iron cycling and organic matter dynamics
• Cold-water coral ecosystems
• Arctic hydrothermal systems
• Lateral carbon transport and fluxes
• Deep-sea petroleum seeps
• Pelagic ecosystem forecasting under climate change

Each project contributes to a deeper understanding of the ocean floor’s role in Earth’s systems and future climate scenarios.

Structured PhD Training & Support

Each successful candidate will receive a 4-year employment contract (75% TV-L/TVöD salary scale) with the expectation of completing a PhD. Benefits of the program include:

• Interdisciplinary training in geosciences, biogeochemistry, marine biology, and climatology
• Professional and transferable skill development workshops
• Research exchange visits to partner institutions
• Mentorship from globally recognized experts
• Access to a vibrant, international academic network

Key Benefits

• Competitive salary based on German TV-L/TVöD 13 scale
• Full health, social insurance, and retirement benefits
• 30 days of paid vacation per year
• Flexible work hours and remote work options
• Access to wellness and mental health support programs
• Inclusive environment welcoming international and female researchers

Applicants with disabilities and equal qualifications will be given preference as part of Germany’s commitment to equal opportunity.

Application Details

• Deadline to Apply: July 25, 2025
• Reference Number: A179-25
• Start Date: January 1, 2026 (subject to final funding confirmation)

Required Documents

• Motivation letter
• Updated CV with academic certificates
• List of publications (if applicable)
• Contact details of two referees

Apply via email: office-exc-oceanfloor@uni-bremen.de

Or by post to:

MARUM – Center for Marine Environmental Sciences
University of Bremen
Prof. Dr. Heiko Pälike
Leobener Straße 8,
28359 Bremen, Germany

Note: Do not include personal photographs. Submit only copies of documents; originals will not be returned.

Useful Links

• Explore PhD Projects (EXC1-01 to EXC1-15)
• Cluster of Excellence Website
• For scientific queries: Prof. Heiko Pälike – speaker-exc-oceanfloor@uni-bremen.de
• Learn more about the Early Career Researcher Program

Boost your career in marine sciences and become part of a globally recognized research cluster tackling some of Earth’s most pressing scientific challenges. Apply today and contribute to unveiling the secrets of the ocean floor – our planet’s last uncharted frontier.