The Museum für Naturkunde Berlin – Leibniz Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity Research, located in Berlin, Germany, is offering a fully funded PhD position in palaeontology and evolutionary biology. The position focuses on dinosaur–bird evolution and phylogenetic research. Starting as soon as possible, the three-year project investigates macroevolutionary trends in Avialae, examining dinosaur–bird relationships, lineage development, and evolutionary processes associated with flight evolution and survival following the K–Pg mass extinction event.
Programme Overview
- Position: PhD / Doctoral Research Assistant
- Official Reference Number: 25/2026
- Institution: Museum für Naturkunde – Leibniz Institute for Research on Evolution and Biodiversity (MfN), Germany
- Department: Research Museum / Evolutionary Biology and Palaeontology Research
- Research Group: Evolutionary Biology and Palaeontology
- Supervisor: Dr Christian Foth
- Location: Berlin, Germany
- Duration: 36 months
- Start Date: As soon as possible
- Funding: E 13 TV-L salary scale (third-party funded position)
- Required Degree / Diploma: Master’s degree (M.Sc.) in Biology, Geology, Palaeontology, or related disciplines
About Research Project
The PhD project investigates macroevolutionary trends in Avialae, focusing on connections between modern birds and their non-avian theropod dinosaur relatives. The study aims to reconstruct the ancestry of Avialae during the Mesozoic and early Cenozoic periods while examining how morphological, developmental, and ecological traits influenced flight development and survival after the K–Pg mass extinction event.
The project integrates vertebrate palaeontology, evolutionary biology, and quantitative methods to examine biological variation and biodiversity changes across Avialae lineages. It explores lineage diversification, anatomical diversity, ecological adaptations, and long-term trends using statistical approaches to identify the factors that shaped bird origins and the diversification of theropod dinosaurs.
Research Focus
The PhD position focuses on the following research areas:
- Vertebrate palaeontology
- Dinosaur evolution
- Avialae and bird origins
- Evolutionary biology
- Phylogenetics and computational analysis
- Fossil-based biodiversity research
Eligibility / Qualifications
The required and preferred qualifications include:
Required Qualifications:
- Completed Master’s degree (M.Sc.) in Biology, Geology, Palaeontology, or a related field.
- Knowledge of vertebrate palaeontology, reptile zoology, evolutionary biology, and phylogenetic methods.
- Basic understanding of statistical analysis and research methodologies.
- Experience conducting independent research projects.
- Excellent English language skills for scientific communication.
- Ability to work independently and contribute effectively within interdisciplinary research teams.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with phylogenetic analysis and software tools such as TNT and Mesquite.
- Familiarity with statistical programmes, including R, for evolutionary data analysis.
- Experience using image processing tools such as ImageJ and Photoshop.
- Knowledge of CT data processing and 3D reconstruction techniques.
- Understanding of scientific publishing practices and research documentation.
Research Responsibilities
The doctoral researcher will conduct palaeontological investigations and quantitative analyses as part of the DFG-funded Avialae research project. Key responsibilities include:
- Conducting phylogenetic studies on crown birds and non-avian theropod representatives.
- Collecting and documenting morphological, developmental, and ecological datasets.
- Applying statistical and comparative methods to investigate evolutionary patterns.
- Interpreting research findings through scientific data analysis.
- Publishing results in peer-reviewed journals.
- Presenting outcomes at international conferences.
Funding and Benefits
The position provides a funded doctoral opportunity with salary according to the German TV-L public sector pay scale.
Benefits include:
- E 13 TV-L salary scale.
- 36-month third-party funded research contract.
- Flexible working hours and work-life balance options.
- Professional and personal training opportunities.
- Possibility of mobile working depending on job requirements.
- Employee events and health management support.
- German and English language courses.
- 30 days of annual leave plus additional days off on 24 and 31 December.
Application Process
Applicants should submit their application through the official Museum für Naturkunde Berlin online application portal. The application should include standard academic documents demonstrating qualifications and research experience.
Required documents:
- Cover letter
- Curriculum vitae
- Academic certificates
- Supporting documents relevant to the application
Why This Opportunity Matters
This PhD position combines dinosaur palaeontology, evolutionary biology, phylogenetic studies, and macroevolutionary analysis. The project examines bird origins and theropod dinosaur evolution using fossil evidence, biological data, and comparative methods. The research will involve:
- Studying links between birds and theropod dinosaurs.
- Applying phylogenetic and statistical methods.
- Analysing morphological and ecological data.
- Developing skills in scientific publishing.
- Presenting findings in an international research environment.
The position provides training in evolutionary methods, interdisciplinary collaboration, and peer-reviewed scientific research.
Important Dates
- Applications Open: 10 July 2026
- Application Deadline: 14 August 2026
- Interview Period: Not specified
- Expected Start Date: As soon as possible
Access the official vacancy details and submit your application through the Museum für Naturkunde Berlin portal before 14 August 2026 to secure consideration for this funded PhD opportunity.
Related Academic Opportunities
- Funded Palaeontology Research Positions
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- Global Palaeoscience Research Jobs
Institutional Overview
The Museum für Naturkunde Berlin is a leading natural history museum in Germany and a member of the Leibniz Association. The institution conducts internationally recognised studies in biodiversity, evolution, palaeontology, and Earth sciences. Its extensive scientific collections support investigations into the history of life, species diversity, and biological change. Researchers apply collection-based approaches, digital technologies, and interdisciplinary collaboration to explore questions in biology and geology. Located in Berlin, the museum provides a dynamic academic environment for scientists working across palaeontology, evolutionary biology, and natural history while contributing to global scientific understanding.
Explore related PhD positions, palaeontology research opportunities, and global academic vacancies through HigherJobz, connecting researchers with worldwide opportunities in science and heritage fields.
