College of Science and Engineering Scholarship

The Disease Ecology Lab at the School of Natural Sciences, University of Galway, invites applications for a fully funded PhD scholarship focused on the evolution of sex-biased parasitism. This research opportunity is part of the College of Science and Engineering Scholarship programme and offers a four-year position with a full tuition fee waiver and a €25,000 tax-exempt stipend per annum.

The project investigates the evolutionary drivers of sex-biased parasitism and its impact on ecological dynamics, using the model host Daphnia magna and its bacterial parasite Pasteuria ramosa. The successful candidate will join a vibrant research environment in Galway, Ireland, and work closely with Dr. Christina Tadiri, the primary supervisor. The Disease Ecology Lab is renowned for its research excellence and collaborative atmosphere, providing access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and a supportive academic community.

Applicants should hold at least a B.Sc. in Biology, Zoology, or a related field, with a M.Sc. preferred. Essential skills include proficiency in laboratory techniques, strong attention to detail, effective communication and organisational abilities, and the capacity to work both independently and as part of a team. The position is open to candidates worldwide, and the start date is flexible, with an expected commencement in September 2026.

Funding covers a full tuition fee waiver and a generous living allowance, ensuring financial support throughout the four-year programme. The scholarship is not funded by an EU programme but is provided by the College of Science and Engineering at the University of Galway.

To apply, candidates must submit a full CV, academic transcripts, a letter of motivation (maximum 2 pages), contact details for two references, and a brief outline of proposed work (maximum 1 page) to Dr. Christina Tadiri at [email protected] with the subject line 'PhD in Sex-Biased Parasitism'. The application deadline is 15 June 2026. For further information about the university and moving to Ireland, visit University of Galway and Euraxess.

This opportunity is ideal for motivated students interested in evolutionary biology, disease ecology, and host-parasite interactions. The University of Galway offers a distinguished academic environment and a welcoming community in the heart of Galway city.