About the Program
This fully funded PhD in Conservation Genomics of Asian Elephants at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU) offers an exciting opportunity to join the Ecology and Evolution section within the Amsterdam Institute for Life and Environment (A-LIFE). Supervised by experts including Dr Mirte Bosse, this four-year project explores the genetic compatibility and restoration potential of endangered Asian elephant populations using innovative bioinformatics, pangenomics, and long-read sequencing technologies. The research aligns with global conservation goals and the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, bringing together an interdisciplinary team and strong collaborations with Rotterdam Zoo and Wageningen University. The role also includes field-related work, data analysis, and international engagement, making it ideal for candidates passionate about genetics, biodiversity, and wildlife conservation.
Program Details
- Position: Fully funded PhD Position
- Institution: Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU)
- Department/Faculty: Ecology & Evolution, Amsterdam Institute for Life and Environment (A-LIFE)
- Supervisor: Dr Mirte Bosse and team
- Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Start Date (Anticipated): January 2026
- Duration: 4 years
- Funding: Fully funded; salary from €3,059 to €3,881 gross/month in the fourth year, plus benefits
- Working Hours: 38 hours per week
- Required Degree/Diploma: MSc in Biology, Genetics, Animal Breeding, Conservation Sciences, Bioinformatics or related fields
Research Focus/Area
- • Conservation genomics
- • Asian elephant population genetics
- • Pangenomics and genome assemblies
- • Bioinformatics and sequencing technologies
- • Structural variants and population genomics
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- Master’s degree in a relevant biological, genetic or computational field
- Good command of English (spoken and written)
- Programming and command-line skills (Python or bash)
- Experience with next- or third-generation sequencing (Illumina, PacBio, Nanopore)
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with vertebrate pangenomics
- Background with Asian elephant or wildlife datasets
- Strong academic record
- Experience working in interdisciplinary or international teams
Key Features of the Program
- Fully funded PhD with competitive salary and benefits
- Work with a leading conservation genomics team
- Access to advanced sequencing technologies
- Collaboration with Rotterdam Zoo and Wageningen University
- Opportunities to attend national and international conferences
- Support for teaching (10% workload)
- Inclusive and diverse research environment
Application Process
How to Apply:
Submit your application via the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam application portal. All documents must be compiled into one PDF.
Required Documents:
- Motivation letter
- Curriculum vitae
- MSc grade list
- Names and contact details of two scientific referees
Important Dates
- Applications Open: 12 November 2025
- Deadline: 15 December 2025
- Interviews: January 2026
Where to Apply
- University Website: Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
- Official Notification: click here
- Application Portal: click here
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