The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) is offering a fully funded PhD student position in Animal Science at the Department of Animal Biosciences in Uppsala, Sweden. The department is renowned for its interdisciplinary research spanning molecular and cellular mechanisms, animal biology, welfare, genetics, breeding, biochemistry, pathology, pharmacology, toxicology, immunology, microbiology, and bioinformatics. The research group is dedicated to advancing sustainable animal health, welfare, and productivity through innovative, data-driven, and ethically responsible breeding strategies.

The PhD project focuses on understanding the genetic basis of feralisation in chickens, specifically analyzing genomic, transcriptomic, and methylation data from feral birds in Hawaii and Bermuda. The research aims to determine how methylation affects gene expression and phenotypic variation, with the ultimate goal of producing a transgenic chicken as part of a collaboration with Revive & Restore. The position offers a dynamic and international research environment, opportunities for collaboration with academia and industry, and potential for research visits abroad.

Applicants must have a master’s degree (or equivalent) in biology, natural sciences, engineering, or a related field, and demonstrate proficiency in English. Relevant skills include evolutionary and population genetics, statistical data analysis (such as QTL mapping and genomic association studies), DNA sequence analysis, and programming in R or Python. Experience with methylation data is advantageous. Selection is based on academic qualifications, research experience, and personal qualities such as commitment, collaboration, analytical skills, and independence.

The position is fully funded for four years, with salary and benefits according to SLU guidelines. The application deadline is 28 February 2026. To apply, candidates should submit their application through the SLU recruitment portal, including a CV, degree certificates, transcripts, references, and proof of English proficiency. Non-Swedish citizens must provide a copy of their passport. For more information, visit the official SLU website or the job posting link provided.