Department of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies
PhD position: Experimental evolution of reproductive strategies under varying sex ratios 80 %
Start of employment 01.09.2025, temporaryProf. Dr. Stefan Lüpold from the Department of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies seeks a highly motivated PhD candidate to investigate how operational sex ratios shape long-term evolutionary adaptations in reproductive strategies. The project leverages Drosophila prolongata populations experimentally evolved over 60 generations under male- or female-biased OSR regimes. This work addresses critical gaps in understanding how competition and mate choice drive the evolution of male and female mating strategies in dynamic social environments.
Your responsibilities
This fully funded project of 4 years combines large-scale experimental evolution with cutting-edge deep-learning tools for automated, high-throughput phenotyping of behavioral and morphological traits. This approach allows rigorous testing of hypotheses about adaptive benefits of evolved strategies in mixed social contexts.
Your profile
- Master's degree in evolutionary biology, ecology, animal behavior, or a related field
- Good knowledge of sexual selection theory and evolutionary ecology
- Experience with statistical analysis using R or similar
- Enthusiasm for lab-based experimental work using a unique Drosophila species
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary team
- Strong written and verbal communication skills in English
Prior experience with behavioral assays, insect experimentation, or deep-learning is a plus though not essential. We prioritize candidates with a commitment to learning these techniques.
Information on your application
Please send the following documents to the contact below:- Motivation letter (1-2 pages) describing your expertise and interests, as well as why you see yourself as a good fit for this project
- CV with publication list (if available) and contacts of 2-3 referees
- Academic transcripts
- Interviews will start on 9 June 2025.
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Questions about the job
Prof. Dr. Stefan Lüpold Professor +41 44 635 47 77
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Questions about the application procedure
Isabel Schöchli Administrative assistant +41 44 635 52 04
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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 → https://www.uzh.ch/cmsssl/en/explore/work.html
Please apply via our job portal www.jobs.uzh.ch.
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 → https://www.uzh.ch/cmsssl/en/explore/work.html
Please apply via our job portal www.jobs.uzh.ch.
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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