PhD and Postdoctoral Positions in Seed Ecology, Macroecology, and Data-Driven Plant Science at The University of Hong Kong The University of Hong Kong in Hong Kong

PhD and postdoctoral positions are open in a new research group led by Dr. Si-Chong Chen at the School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong. The group will begin in June 2026 and is recruiting students and researchers on a rolling basis until the positions are filled.

The lab focuses on seed ecology, plant ecology, macroecology, and macroevolution, with a strong interest in understanding how plants regenerate and how biodiversity is maintained. Research themes include seed dispersal, seed predation, seed storage behaviours, community assembly, and biogeographic patterns across broad spatial and temporal scales.

The group combines field experiments, theoretical approaches, large-scale datasets, and artificial intelligence to address classical ecological questions using data-driven methods. Applicants with backgrounds in ecology, statistics, computer science, and related disciplines are especially welcome. Experience in species interactions, entomology, microbiome, macroevolution, field experiment design, AI, data mining, and database construction/integration is highly valued.

This is an opportunity for candidates interested in fundamental questions in ecology and plant life-history strategies in a changing world. PhD and postdoctoral applicants are encouraged to propose their own research ideas aligned with the lab's broader themes.

To apply, prospective applicants should first email Dr. Chen with an academic CV and a brief description of research interests and experience. PhD and postdoctoral candidates should also include a short research proposal outlining possible questions and approaches. The post states that applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the positions are filled.