About the Program
Lund University invites applications for a fully funded PhD in Biology with a specialisation in Evolutionary Ecology titled “Symbioses and the Evolutionary Transition to Multicellularity” at the Department of Biology. This doctoral position focuses on understanding the evolution of multicellularity and the role of symbioses with microbes in green algae species, addressing key questions in evolutionary biology and ecology. The project will be supervised by Prof. Charlie Cornwallis and integrates research across natural and laboratory systems, including experimental evolution, comparative genomics, and long-term ecological monitoring. The research duration is four years, based in Lund, Sweden, with a preliminary start date of February 2026. This PhD offers opportunities for fieldwork, laboratory research, bioinformatics, statistical modelling, and collaboration with leading researchers across Lund and Uppsala Universities.
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Program Details
- Position: Fully Funded PhD / Doctoral Researcher
- Institution: Lund University
- Department/Faculty: Department of Biology
- Supervisor: Prof. Charlie Cornwallis
- Location: Lund, Skåne län, Sweden
- Start Date (Anticipated): February 2026
- Duration: 4 years (full-time)
- Funding: Fully funded doctoral studentship; includes salary per Swedish Higher Education Ordinance regulations
- Working Hours: 100% full-time
- Required Degree/Diploma: Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Ecology, Evolutionary Biology, or related fields
Research Focus/Area
- Evolutionary Ecology
- Symbioses between microbes and algae
- Multicellularity evolution
- Experimental evolution and comparative genomics
- Field studies on lakes and ecological monitoring in Sweden
- Microbiology, cell biology, and microscopy
- Bioinformatics and statistical modelling
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- Master’s degree in Ecology, Evolutionary Biology, or related discipline
- Very good oral and written proficiency in English
- Completion of an independent project (≥30 credits) in a relevant field
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with microbial work
- Microscopy and cell culture skills
- Molecular genetics or bioinformatics expertise
- Statistical analyses, particularly mixed modelling
- Handling large ecological datasets
- Strong collaborative, independent, and problem-solving skills
Key Features of the Program
- Fully funded PhD studentship for four years
- Integration into a stimulating and diverse intellectual environment
- Collaboration with research groups at Lund and Uppsala University
- Opportunities for fieldwork, laboratory experiments, and bioinformatics
- Training in evolutionary ecology, experimental evolution, and comparative genomics
- Engagement in departmental teaching (up to 20%) and third-cycle courses
Application Process
How to Apply:
Applications must be written in English and include:
- Cover letter detailing research interests and motivation
- Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Degree certificate or equivalent
- Grade transcripts and optional letters of recommendation
- Contact details of references
Submit your application via the Lund University online portal using reference number PA2025/3413.
Important Dates
- Applications Open: 8 December 2025
- Deadline: 16 January 2026
- Start Date: Preliminary 1 February 2026
Where to Apply
- University Website: Lund University
- Official Notification: Click here
- Application Portal: Click here
Learn about more PhD opportunities: HigherJobz
