Department of Paleontology

Open PhD position on Biomechanics and Anatomy of the Ape and Hominin Organ of Hearing 100 %

Start of employment 01.09.2025 (starting date may be discussed)

We invite applications for a PhD position at the Evolutionary Morphology and Palaeobiology of Vertebrates group in the Department of Paleontology of the University of Zurich. The PhD candidate will work in the context of an Ambizione Swiss National Science Foundation, a project led by Dr. Alessandro Urciuoli.
For more information, please visit: Department of Paleontology

Your responsibilities

The PhD candidate will explore the evolutionary trajectory of the organ of hearing in extant and extinct hominids from a morphological and functional perspective. The project will involve the anatomical description of the cochlear system in ape species, the adaptation of human-based computational simulations (finite element models) of the organ of hearing to that of extant apes, and the reconstruction of the hearing sensitivity to sound frequencies in fossil hominins. The candidate will rely on digital images of the cochlear membranous system of apes and humans obtained with the most advanced synchrotron-based computed tomography technology and housed at the Comparative Ear Bank digital repository. The PhD student will be part of an international network devoted to the holistic analysis of inner ear structures and will have the opportunity to perform research stays at European institutions.

Your profile

We are looking for a highly motivated student of Life, Biomedical, or Engineering Sciences with a background in bioengineering, paleoanthropology, or otorhinolaryngology. Proficient English writing skills are essential. Due to the multidisciplinary nature of the project, knowledge in one or more of the following fields is desirable: finite element modelling and theory, fluid dynamics, auditory physiology, biomechanics, and/or ear anatomy. Skills in Python and MATLAB programming, CAD software, and/or digital image handling and processing will also be positively evaluated. The prospective student is expected to have received a master's degree or equivalent by the start of the PhD and will hopefully have published or are preparing to publish on her/his Masters. The student is to enroll in the evolutionary biology graduate program.

Information on your application

To apply, please send a letter of motivation including information on previous scientific work and publications if available (maximum of 2 pages), a CV, and contact details of two referees. Please ensure that all those parts are combined into a single PDF-file. In addition attach an electronic copy of the Masters-thesis.

The deadline for applications is 20th of April 2025. Applications received after the deadline may be considered if the position is not yet filled. Applicants should be prepared to be interviewed in the first half of May 2025 and ideally start on September 1st of 2025 (starting date may be discussed). The planned duration for the PhD project is four years and compensation follows the standards set by the University of Zurich's salary guidelines.

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Further information

Questions about the job

Dr. Alessandro Urciuoli Group Leader
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Contact question to: Dr. Alessandro Urciuoli

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Questions about the application procedure

Alexandra Wegmann
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Working at UZH
The University of Zurich, Switzerland's largest university, offers a range of attractive positions in various subject areas and professional fields. With around 10,000 employees and currently 12 professional apprenticeship streams the University offers an inspiring working environment on cutting-edge research and top-class education. Put your talent and skills to work with us. Find out more about UZH as an employer!
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Working at UZH

The University of Zurich, Switzerland's largest university, offers a range of attractive positions in various subject areas and professional fields. With around 10,000 employees and currently 12 professional apprenticeship streams the University offers an inspiring working environment on cutting-edge research and top-class education. Put your talent and skills to work with us. Find out more about UZH as an employer! More
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