PhD Position in Vertebrate Comparative Genomics and Miniaturisation

The University of Copenhagen is offering a fully funded PhD position in vertebrate comparative genomics, focusing on the genomic basis and consequences of miniaturisation in vertebrates. This opportunity is part of the ERC-funded GEMINI project led by Associate Professor Mark D. Scherz at the Natural History Museum Denmark. The research aims to elucidate how miniaturisation affects vertebrate genomes, using high-quality genome resources and a combination of laboratory and bioinformatics approaches. The successful candidate will generate reference-quality genomes of miniaturised and related non-miniaturised vertebrates, create whole genome alignments, and test key hypotheses about genomic changes associated with size reduction. The Scherz Lab investigates fundamental questions in vertebrate evolution, including the limits of vertebrate anatomy and the role of extreme body size shifts in generating evolutionary novelty. Other research topics in the group include museomics, systematics, taxonomy, and macroevolution of anatomy. The lab is located at the Sølvgade complex in central Copenhagen, offering access to advanced research facilities, including museomics laboratories, imaging labs, and extensive natural history collections. Applicants should hold a degree equivalent to a Danish master’s in biology, bioinformatics, computational biology, evolutionary biology, or a related field. Essential skills include coding bioinformatic pipelines (R, bash, python, perl), molecular laboratory experience, and strong English communication abilities. The ideal candidate is collaborative, flexible, reliable, and eager to learn. Familiarity with zoology is a plus but not required. Assessment criteria include academic performance, relevant qualifications, publication experience, and a strong interest in vertebrate genomics and evolution. The PhD fellowship is a three-year, full-time position with a monthly salary starting at 30,800 DKK (approx. 4,125 EUR) plus pension. Employment is contingent on successful enrolment in the PhD School at the Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen. The application process requires submission of a motivated letter, CV, diplomas, transcripts, publication list, and up to two reference letters, all in English, via the university’s job portal. The deadline for applications is 4 January 2026. Interviews are expected in week 6 of 2026. For more information, visit the Scherz Lab website or contact Mark D. Scherz at [email protected]. This position offers a creative and stimulating environment in a leading European research institution, with opportunities for international collaboration, teaching, and knowledge dissemination. The University of Copenhagen encourages applications from all backgrounds and is committed to fostering a diverse academic community.