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PhD Student in Plant Evolution and Buzz-Pollinated Flowers Uppsala University in Sweden
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Evolutionary Biology
Funding
The position is a full-time temporary doctoral employment at Uppsala University. Pay follows the established salary scale for doctoral positions; no specific salary amount or additional funding details are stated.
Deadline
Jan 17, 2027
Country
Sweden
University
Uppsala University
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About this position
Uppsala University is seeking a PhD student in plant evolution to join the Plant Ecology and Evolution program in the Department of Ecology and Genetics. The department is part of the Evolutionary Biology Center, an international research environment focused on fundamental and applied biological questions through an evolutionary perspective.
The project, Convergent evolution in buzz-pollinated flowers, investigates how similar floral traits have evolved independently across plant lineages pollinated by vibration-producing bees. The research will compare form and function across multiple plant families and examine the evolutionary pathways that produce convergence and novelty in plants.
The PhD student will conduct experimentally focused research involving bumblebees and bee-sized robotic shakers, or “robo-buzzers,” to test the function of buzz-pollinated flowers. Work will include floral characterization using X-ray micro-computed tomography, plant cultivation in the glasshouse, maintenance of bumblebee colonies, and the development of analytical frameworks. The project combines plant evolution, pollination biology, experimental ecology, biomechanics, and bee–flower interactions.
The student will work with Professor Mario Vallejo-Marin and participate in the research group’s weekly meetings and wider academic activities. The role includes preparing manuscripts and presenting research at national and international meetings, within a collaborative international environment in Uppsala.
Funding details
The position is a full-time temporary doctoral employment at Uppsala University. Pay follows the established salary scale for doctoral positions; no specific salary amount or additional funding details are stated.
What's required
Applicants must hold a Master's degree in biology, evolutionary biology, plant biology, or electrical engineering; alternatively, they must have completed at least 240 higher-education credits including at least 60 credits at Master's level and an independent project of at least 15 credits, or possess substantially equivalent knowledge. Applicants must be able to work closely with plants and bees, handle and effectively use delicate and complex electro-mechanical equipment and associated software, and communicate fully in spoken and written English. Desired qualifications include ecological and evolutionary theory, experimental design and troubleshooting, technically complex electro-mechanical equipment, biophysical and biomechanical principles, statistical analysis using software such as R or MATLAB, plant and bee experience, academic writing, pollination biology, and teamwork.
How to apply
Prepare an English application containing a concise motivation and research-interest letter addressing the project and qualifications, a CV with education, research experience and publications if applicable, and contact details for two referees. Submit it through Uppsala University's recruitment system by 17 January 2027; the advert asks applicants to disclose any use of AI in the letter.
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Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.