PhD Positions in Dolphin Genomics and Behavioural Ecology

University of Zurich

Department of Evolutionary Anthropology

PhD Positions in Dolphin Genomics and Behavioural Ecology 80 %

Start of employment 01.06.2026 or by arrangement

The Evolutionary Genetics Group at the Department of Evolutionary Anthropology at the University of Zurich, Switzerland, is seeking two highly motivated PhD students.

Our group has broad interests in evolutionary genomics and behavioural ecology of delphinids and great apes. The work will be conducted together with our research collaborators of Shark Bay Dolphin Research. The students will work in a dynamic research environment working on all aspects of evolutionary anthropology. Our department is well connected with numerous close collaborations within the Faculty of Life Sciences and many other international universities.

Your responsibilities

The work will entail a combination of field work in Shark Bay, Australia, and genomic laboratory work at the University of Zurich. The positions are for four years, fixed-term and will be remunerated according to UZH PhD salary scales. The PhD positions will be embedded in the Zurich Life Science Graduate School's program in Evolutionary Biology.

Your profile

Successful candidates will have a Diploma/Master's degree in a relevant discipline, a strong interest in cetacean or primate fieldwork (with prior experience), bioinformatic skills, laboratory work, and evolutionary theory. The ideal candidates will have strong oral and written communication skills in English and the ability to work and share ideas in a collaborative environment. Knowledge of German language is not essential, but may help with everyday life whilst in Zurich.

Information on your application

Interested students should send their application packages before 31 March 2026. The packages must include, in one PDF file:

• A cover letter expressing research interests and experience relevant to the position
• A complete CV
• Contact details of two academic referees

Please also attach copies of your official academic transcripts and degrees, as well as copies of any publications and Diploma/MSc theses.

What we offer

Work-Life Balance

• Flexible working models (such as part-time positions, mobile working, job-sharing)
• Childcare at the kihz foundation of UZH and ETH

Learning and Development

• Wide range of continuing education courses of UZH and the Canton of Zurich
• Language Center run jointly with ETH Zurich

Food

• Food and drinks at reduced prices in the UZH cafeterias
• Lunch-Check-card with UZH contribution

Healthcare

• Special conditions on the Academic Sports Association ASVZ
• Free seasonal flu vaccinations
• Rest and relaxation at the quiet room in the university tower

Discounts

• Private traffic: Carsharing, rent a vehicle, parking space
• Digitalization: Hardware, software, mobile phone subscriptions
• Special conditions on hotel reservations

Location

Department of Evolutionary Anthropology

Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057 Zürich, Switzerland

Further information

Questions about the job

Michael Krützen Professor, Director