Nicky Wybouw

Ghent University is offering a full-time doctoral fellowship in the Department of Biology, hosted by the Wybouw research group in Belgium. The project aligns with the ERC Starting Grant HYBRIPEST and focuses on the ecology and evolution of reproduction in phytophagous arthropods. The research explores two connected themes: how biotic interactions such as parasitism and symbiosis shape the evolution of eggs and oviposition, and how reproductive isolation evolves in herbivores. The successful candidate will investigate key functional egg traits and their role in surviving antagonistic interactions with parasitoids and bacteria, while also studying the drivers and consequences of speciation, including selfish genetic elements, local biotic parameters, and oviposition behavior. The project combines intensive tropical fieldwork, molecular laboratory work, and arthropod husbandry across several arthropod taxa. The doctoral fellow will join a dynamic and complementary team working on speciation, herbivory, and endosymbiosis under the supervision of Prof. Nicky Wybouw and another supervisor. Applicants should have an MSc degree in Biology, Biotechnology, Bioscience engineering, or a closely related discipline. A strong background in evolutionary biology and field entomology is expected, while experience with molecular biology methods such as amplicon sequencing and with arthropod husbandry is an advantage. International research experience, previous publications, and a strong record of relevant research activity are considered beneficial. Excellent written and spoken English are required, and the department particularly welcomes motivated candidates who can work independently and collaboratively. The fellowship is initially offered for 12 months and can be extended to a maximum of 48 months after positive evaluation. The fellowship amount corresponds to 100% of the net salary of an AAP member in equal family circumstances, and the grant is tax-free if it meets the rules for doctoral fellowships. The application deadline is 4 August 2026 at 23:59 Brussels time. To apply, candidates should email their CV, a copy of their diploma if already available, and a motivation letter to [email protected]. Late applications are not accepted.