A four-year, fully funded PhD post in the Microbiota-Gut-Brain Axis and Behavior Lab, under the direction of Dr. Joanito Liberti in the Department of Genetics and Evolution, is available at the University of Geneva (UNIGE). This role offers a stimulating chance to work on multidisciplinary studies investigating the impact of gut bacteria on bee behavior and neurophysiology.
This PhD program provides access to state-of-the-art research resources, an engaging academic environment, and a competitive salary, making it the perfect choice for students with a strong interest in behavioral ecology, microbiology, and evolutionary biology. As one of the top 1% of institutions globally, UNIGE is well-known for its prowess in behavioral research, multidisciplinary cooperation, and the biological sciences.
This role, which is based in the center of Europe, provides the opportunity to engage in a dynamic, diverse academic environment and contribute to cutting-edge studies on the behavioral and molecular links between social species’ brains and their microbiomes. This is a rare and esteemed chance for young researchers hoping to have a significant scientific effect, with complete financial support, chances for global collaboration, and access to cutting-edge lab facilities.
Host Country: Switzerland
University: University of Geneva
Opportunity Type: PhD
Eligibility Country: International Students
Financial Coverage: Fully Funded
Eligibility Criteria:
- A master’s degree (MSc) in microbiology, molecular biology, behavioral ecology, evolutionary biology, or a closely related field
- demonstrated expertise in conducting behavioral research and creating experiments
- Understanding of pertinent bioinformatics tools and next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies
- Skilled in R, Python, or Bash programming languages and familiar with Linux-based systems
- Excellent abilities in data analysis and scientific writing
- While not required, prior beekeeping experience is beneficial.
Benefits:
- The PhD post is fully financed and will begin in September 2025 and last for four years.
- Admission to the University of Geneva’s (UNIGE) PhD Program in Ecology and Evolution
- Availability of state-of-the-art research facilities, such as
- Automated systems for monitoring behavior
- Platforms for next-generation sequencing
- Advanced technology for microscopy
- Complete labs for microbiology and molecular biology
- Internationally varied, cooperative, and encouraging research environment
- Possibilities for joint research projects with partner labs in Switzerland and abroad
- Competitive pay in line with the requirements of Swiss universities
Deadline: 25 May 2025
