PhD position in Eco-Evolutionary Theory
We are looking for a highly motivated candidate interested in fundamental eco-evolutionary theory, as it relates to evolution in natural populations. Candidates with degrees in biology, ecology, biomathematics, bioinformatics, physics, mathematics, computer science, and related disciplines, are all encouraged to apply. The degree should be awarded before the planned start of the PhD. Strong interest in evolutionary and ecological processes as well as in mathematical modelling and programming is essential; it is expected that the candidate will have a more solid background in a subset of these areas.
The project focuses on the effects of eco-evolutionary feedback, such as the interplay between ecological (population) dynamics and evolutionary dynamics, on evolutionary and ecological processes. In particular, how does eco-evolutionary feedback affect speciation, the evolution of genetic variance and architecture, coevolution, and the coexistence between specialists and generalists? The candidate’s work will focus on fundamental theoretical research, employing analytical methods and computer simulations. In addition, the student will engage with collaborators working on experimental systems.
Funding is open to all prospective graduate students, including international applicants, and is available for 3 years. PhD salary is about 2000 EUR net per month (14x year), comfortable for living in Vienna.
Intended start date October 2026 (negotiable into early 2027). The review of applications will commence on 13.7. 2026. Shortlisted candidates can expect interviews during August and early September.
Please send your application by email to jitka@univie.ac.at as a single PDF including:
(i) a full CV with your academic record and relevant experience, as well as links to any preprints/papers and BSc/MSc theses;
(ii) a statement outlining your past research experience, current interests, and what interests you in this project and why (1-2 pages);
(iii) the names and contact details of at least two referees.
Please use the following subject line: PhD EcoEvo 2026 <YourName> for the application email, as well as for the included PDF, ideally as PhD_EcoEvo_ 2026_YourName.pdf
We are looking for a highly motivated candidate interested in fundamental eco-evolutionary theory, as it relates to evolution in natural populations. Candidates with degrees in biology, ecology, biomathematics, bioinformatics, physics, mathematics, computer science, and related disciplines, are all encouraged to apply. The degree should be awarded before the planned start of the PhD. Strong interest in evolutionary and ecological processes as well as in mathematical modelling and programming is essential; it is expected that the candidate will have a more solid background in a subset of these areas.
The project focuses on the effects of eco-evolutionary feedback, such as the interplay between ecological (population) dynamics and evolutionary dynamics, on evolutionary and ecological processes. In particular, how does eco-evolutionary feedback affect speciation, the evolution of genetic variance and architecture, coevolution, and the coexistence between specialists and generalists? The candidate’s work will focus on fundamental theoretical research, employing analytical methods and computer simulations. In addition, the student will engage with collaborators working on experimental systems.
Funding is open to all prospective graduate students, including international applicants, and is available for 3 years. PhD salary is about 2000 EUR net per month (14x year), comfortable for living in Vienna.
Intended start date October 2026 (negotiable into early 2027). The review of applications will commence on 13.7. 2026. Shortlisted candidates can expect interviews during August and early September.
Please send your application by email to jitka@univie.ac.at as a single PDF including:
(i) a full CV with your academic record and relevant experience, as well as links to any preprints/papers and BSc/MSc theses;
(ii) a statement outlining your past research experience, current interests, and what interests you in this project and why (1-2 pages);
(iii) the names and contact details of at least two referees.
Please use the following subject line: PhD EcoEvo 2026 <YourName> for the application email, as well as for the included PDF, ideally as PhD_EcoEvo_ 2026_YourName.pdf