Funded PhD Position in Lizard Evolutionary Ecology at UCLouvain

The Animal Evolutionary Ecology group at UCLouvain (Belgium), led by Professor Simon Baeckens, is offering a funded 4-year PhD position focused on lizard evolutionary ecology. The successful candidate will join a dynamic research team to investigate how lizards adapt to human-induced environmental changes, using an integrative approach that examines morphological, physiological, and behavioral traits. The overarching aim is to understand how organisms respond to abrupt and novel selective pressures, and how these responses facilitate population persistence under global change. The project direction is flexible and will be shaped according to the candidate’s profile, interests, and strengths. Potential research themes include anthropogenic drivers of environmental change, such as bio-invasions and urbanization/pollution. Methodological approaches may involve field-based experimental work in Belgium or Mediterranean systems and comparative analyses across species or populations. The anticipated start date is 1 May 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter, with flexibility depending on visa requirements. Applicants should submit a motivation letter, curriculum vitae, a one-page description of a potential PhD research idea, and contact details of 2–3 referees who can provide academic references. Applications must be submitted via UCLouvain’s online recruitment platform by 9 March 2026. For further details or questions about the position or research project, candidates may contact Professor Simon Baeckens at [email protected]. This opportunity is ideal for candidates with a strong background in biology, ecology, or related fields, and an interest in evolutionary responses to environmental change. The position is fully funded, though specific financial details are not provided in the announcement.