PhD Position in Experimental Evolution and Bioinformatics

About us The VIB-UGent Center for Plant Systems Biology (PSB ) is a leading research institute dedicated to understanding how plants grow, adapt, and respond to environmental change. PSB aims to translate fundamental discoveries into sustainable agricultural applications and to enhance the climate resilience of crops. This PhD position will be embedded in the Bioinformatics and Evolutionary Genomics group led by Prof. Yves Van de Peer, in close collaboration with the UGent Phycology Research Group led by Prof. Olivier De Clerck. Together, these groups combine world-leading expertise in genome evolution, polyploidy, and algal biology and evolution. The candidate will join a highly collaborative and international research environment, with strong connections to major polyploidy initiatives, including the Polydiv2 and PI3 networks. About the role We are looking for a highly motivated PhD student to study the impact of genome duplication on  volvocine algae, with a particular focus on Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. The project will investigate how genome dynamics and environmental conditions interact to shape the evolutionary success of polyploids using: Experimental evolution approaches, including long-term laboratory experiments, strain maintenance, culturing, and phenotyping. These are labor-intensive and require strong commitment and planning. Molecular and genomic analyses, including sequencing data generation and interpretation Bioinformatics and statistical analysis, to characterize genome evolution, mutation processes, and adaptation patterns The PhD candidate will progressively transition from intensive wet-lab experimentation in the early phase of the project towards increased involvement in data analysis, integration, and scientific writing in later stages. The project offers a unique opportunity to work at the interface of evolutionary biology, genomics, and algal model systems, while contributing to a broader understanding of biodiversity, adaptation, and genome evolution. Your profile Essential: You have a Master's degree in Biology, Biotechnology, Bioengineering, Microbiology, Bioinformatics or a related field. Strong background in evolution, genomics, and/or algal biology Willingness to combine wet-lab experimental work and computational analysis Basic knowledge of statistics and/or programming (R, Python, or similar) Strong motivation to learn new techniques across disciplines Ability to work independently as well as in a teamYou are fluent in English (spoken and written) Desirable, but not required: Experience with microbial or algal culturing or experimental evolution Experience with next-generation sequencing data analysis Familiarity with bioinformatics pipelines Background in evolutionary theory and/or ecology Experience with data handling and statistical modelingPrior lab experience demonstrating ability to perform long-term experiments Key personal characteristics: Highly motivated and curious, with a passion for fundamental research Perseverant and organized, able to handle long-term and labor-intensive experiments Analytical and critical-thinking, with attention to detail Flexible and eager to learn, especially in interdisciplinary contexts Collaborative, open to working closely with supervisors,  technicians, postdocs, and studentsResilient, able to deal with challenges inherent to experimental research Our offer A fully funded 4-year PhD position at Ghent University (UGent) with an attractive salary. A challenging fundamental research project. Enrollment in the UGent Doctoral Schools, providing structured training and transferable skills development. Financial support for attending international conferences and specialized courses Access to extensive training programs, seminars, and career development activities through VIB and UGent A dynamic, international, and interdisciplinary research environment in a top research institute. Close supervision by experienced researchers and opportunities to collaborate broadly How to apply Please apply via the VIB online career portal: Your application should include a detailed CV, a motivation letter, and the contact details of two to three referees. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and will remain open until the position is filled. For more information, please contact Quinten Bafort (Voir email sur nature.com). Please note that applications submitted via email will not be considered; only applications submitted through the online portal will be reviewed.

Company

VIB is a world-leading life sciences research institute based in Flanders, Belgium. Bringing together more than 2,000 scientists, researchers, and support professionals across nine research centers, we pursue one shared mission: to advance our understanding of life and transform scientific discoveries into innovations that benefit people and society.

Our researchers conduct pioneering research in areas ranging from cancer and neuroscience to immunology, plant biology, biotechnology, and microbiology. Embedded within leading Flemish universities and supported by state-of-the-art technologies, core facilities, and expert support teams, VIB offers an inspiring environment where curiosity-driven science thrives.

What makes VIB unique is our entrepreneurial spirit. We actively bridge the gap between fundamental research and real-world impact through industry partnerships, technology transfer, and the creation of innovative biotech ventures. Our discoveries contribute to new diagnostics, therapies, sustainable agricultural solutions, and breakthrough technologies that improve lives around the globe.

Join us in shaping the future of life sciences.

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Suzanne Tassierstraat 1
Ghent
Belgium
9052
BE