The University of Geneva, consistently ranked among the top 1% of universities worldwide, has opened applications for a fully funded four-year PhD position in its Microbiota-Gut-Brain Axis and Behaviour Laboratory. Under the direction of Dr. Joanito Liberti at the Department of Genetics and Evolution, this opportunity is designed for a highly motivated and collaborative scientist to investigate the dynamic interplay between gut microbiota, neurophysiology, and behaviour—specifically in social bees.
Research Focus
The selected candidate will contribute to an interdisciplinary research team exploring the bi-directional communication between gut symbionts and animal behavior. The project will be tailored according to the candidate’s interests and expertise, with possible directions including:
- Investigating microbial regulation of bee neurophysiology and behaviour
- Examining how sociality impacts microbiome dynamics
- Employing tools such as microscopy, metagenomics, metabolomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and epigenomics to uncover underlying molecular mechanisms
The lab’s recent work has been published in prestigious journals such as Nature Ecology & Evolution and mBio, reflecting its global impact in the field.
Candidate Profile Requirement
Applicants should hold a Master’s degree in evolutionary biology, microbiology, behavioral ecology, molecular biology, or a related field. Additional qualifications include:
- Experience in behavioural studies and experimental design
- Familiarity with NGS technologies and bioinformatics workflows
- Experience working with bees is an advantage but not a requirement.
- Competency in R, Python, or Bash, and use of Linux systems
- Strong skills in statistical analysis and scientific writing.
Fellowship Program Benefits
- Competitive Swiss-standard stipend
- Access to advanced technologies, including automated behavioral tracking, high-resolution microscopy, and molecular biology labs
- A stimulating international research environment
- Collaboration opportunities within UNIGE and with global partners
- Enrollment in the renowned PhD Program in Ecology and Evolution
Apply: https://lifesciencesphd.unige.ch/jobs
Application Deadline: May 25, 2025
Start Date: Between September and December 2025.
