PhD Student: DDLS Integrative Pangenomics of Polyploids at SLU Uppsala Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences in Sweden

The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) in Uppsala is offering a fully funded PhD position in the Department of Plant Biology, focusing on integrative pangenomics of polyploids within the Data-Driven Life Science (DDLS) framework. The department provides a vibrant international research environment at the Uppsala BioCenter, with expertise spanning wild species, agricultural crops, forest trees, bioenergy crops, and model organisms. Research areas include genome analysis, plant-microbe interactions, plant stress responses, biotechnology, gene expression regulation, population genetics, and breeding system development.

This PhD project aims to investigate how whole-genome duplication influences genome evolution by applying comparative pangenomics across natural diploid–polyploid species pairs. The successful candidate will analyze chromosome-scale genome assemblies and population genomic data to identify structural variants and adaptive mutations associated with genome duplication. The project leverages large-scale graph-based pangenomics and forward evolutionary simulations to develop predictive models of polyploid genome evolution across different timescales. The student will join the Yant Lab (https://www.yantlab.net/) and receive interdisciplinary training in bioinformatics, evolutionary genomics, and high-performance computing.

The DDLS program, funded by the Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation, is a national initiative to advance computational and data science capabilities in Sweden. The program supports over 260 PhD students and 200 postdocs, with strategic research areas including cell and molecular biology, evolution and biodiversity, precision medicine and diagnostics, and epidemiology and biology of infection. More information about the DDLS Research School can be found at https://www.scilifelab.se/data-driven/ddls-research-school/.

Applicants must have a Master’s degree in bioinformatics, molecular biology, cell biology, genetics, plant biology, or a related field, with documented experience in computational analysis (Python or R and HPC environments) and a strong interest in genomics and/or polyploidy. Additional merits include experience in DNA repair assays, cytogenetics, plant functional genetics, transgenics/CRISPR, or advanced microscopy. Proficiency in English is required. The position is based in Uppsala and offers employment as a doctoral student for four years, with funding covering salary and benefits.

To apply, submit your application via the application link by 2026-05-22. Required documents include a personal statement, CV, Master’s thesis, degree certificates, transcripts, two references, and proof of English proficiency. Foreign applicants must provide a certified copy of their passport page. Applicants invited to interview must submit certified copies of degree certificates and transcripts. SLU promotes an inclusive and equal working environment, welcoming applicants from diverse backgrounds.

For further information, contact Professor Levi Yant (levi.yant@slu.se). Additional details about the department and doctoral education at SLU are available at https://www.slu.se/institutioner/vaxtbiologi-skogsgenetik/ and www.slu.se/utbildning/program-kurser/forskarutbildning/.