Arbetsbeskrivning

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The Department of Plant Biology offers a stimulating international environment in the Uppsala BioCenter. In our department, fundamental and strategic plant biology research is conducted on wild species, agricultural crops, forest trees, bioenergy crops, and model organisms. Our main research areas include genome analysis, the interactions between plants and microorganisms, and other forms of stress such as plant growth and development, biotechnology and metabolic manipulation, regulation of gene expression, population genetics, and the development of breeding systems. Uppsala has two universities and with more than 50,000 students, a vibrant reserach-oriented student atmosphere. 

More information about the department/division: https://www.slu.se/institutioner/vaxtbiologi-skogsgenetik/

Read more about our benefits and what it is like to work at SLU: https://www.slu.se/om-slu/jobba-pa-slu/

PhD Student: DDLS integrative pangenomics of polyploids

Project description

This PhD project investigates how whole-genome duplication reshapes genome evolution using comparative pangenomics across multiple natural diploid–polyploid species pairs. The student will analyse a unique dataset of chromosome-scale genome assemblies and population genomic data to identify structural variants and adaptive mutations associated with genome duplication. You would be welcomed in the the Yant Lab (https://www.yantlab.net/) 

Using large-scale graph-based pangenomics and forward evolutionary simulations, the student will develop predictive models of polyploid genome evolution across contrasting timescales. The student will receive interdisciplinary training in bioinformatics, evolutionary genomics, and high-performance computing within the DDLS data-driven life science framework.

Data-driven life science (DDLS) uses data, computational methods and artificial intelligence to study biological systems and processes at all levels, from molecular structures and cellular processes to human health and global ecosystems. The SciLifeLab and Wallenberg National Program for Data- Driven Life Science (DDLS) aims to recruit and train the next generation of data-driven life scientists and to create globally leading computational and data science capabilities in Sweden. The program is funded with a total of 3.3 billion SEK over 12 years from the Knut and Alice Wallenberg (KAW) Foundation.

In 2026 the DDLS Research School will be expanded with the recruitment of 25 academic and 7 industrial PhD students. During the course of the DDLS program more than 260 PhD students and 200 postdocs will be part of the Research School. The DDLS program has four strategic research areas: cell and molecular biology, evolution and biodiversity, precision medicine and diagnostics, epidemiology and biology of infection. For more information, please see https://www.scilifelab.se/data-driven/ddls-research-school/

The future of life science is data-driven. Will you be part of that change? Then join us in this unique program!

At SLU Uppsala, we are announcing the position as DDLS PhD student in Data driven evolution and biodiversity.

Data driven evolution and biodiversity concerns research that takes advantage of the massive data streams offered by techniques such as high-throughput sequencing of genomes and biomes, continuous recording of video and audio in the wild, high-throughput imaging of biological specimens, and large-scale remote monitoring of organisms or habitats.

Qualifications

Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in bioinformatics, molecular biology, cell biology, genetics, plant biology, or a related field, and have documented familiarity with computational analysis (Python or R and HPC environments), and a demonstrated, strong interest in genomics and/or polyploidy. Experience in DNA repair assays, cytogenetics, plant functional genetics, transgenics/CRISPR, or advanced microscopy is a strong additional merit.

Location:

Uppsala.

Form of employment:

Employment as a doctoral student (4 years of education).

Start date:

As soon as possible, according to agreement.

Application

You are welcome to submit your application via the application button no later than 2026-05-22.

To be eligible for doctoral studies, a completed advanced-level degree or at least four years of full-time studies, of which at least one year must be at the advanced level, is required.

Selection among eligible applicants is based on: written application, including a personal statement, CV, Master’s thesis, copies of degree certificates and transcripts from previous undergraduate and advanced-level studies at a university or higher education institution, two personal references, and proficiency in English. More information on English language requirements can be found at: https://www.slu.se/utbildning/program-kurser/forskarutbildning/att-bli-doktorand/

Please note that applicants invited to interview must submit certified copies of degree certificates (or equivalent) and transcripts from previous undergraduate and advanced-level studies at a university or higher education institution. Applicants who are foreign citizens must also submit a certified copy of the passport page containing their photo and personal details.

Read more about doctoral education at SLU: http://www.slu.se/utbildning/program-kurser/forskarutbildning/

Trade union contacts: https://internt.slu.se/min-anstallning/facket/kontaktpersoner/

We work to promote an equal and inclusive working environment where open dialogue among people with different experiences forms the basis for scientific excellence, creativity, and development. 

The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) has a key role in the development of sustainable life, based on science and education.