PhD position in Palaeobiology and Palaeoecology of early arthropods
Join an ERC-funded project investigating the hydrodynamic adaptations and dispersal of early arthropods.
Best for:Best for candidates with a background in palaeontology or earth sciences who are eager to apply computational fluid dynamics to evolutionary biology.
Overview
The University of Geneva is offering a fully funded PhD position within the RECO-ECO project, which explores the ecological adaptations of Earth's earliest arthropods. The successful candidate will investigate the hydrodynamic properties of juvenile trilobites and their influence on dispersal patterns during the Cambrian and Ordovician periods. This interdisciplinary role integrates palaeobiology, fluid dynamics, and biogeographic modeling to reconstruct ancient ecosystems. The researcher will work under the supervision of Dr. Harriet Drage and collaborate with international partners in the UK. Applicants are expected to contribute to research, teaching, and departmental activities while developing a robust multidisciplinary skill set.
What you'll do
- Develop and implement computational and experimental fluid dynamics methods to test ecological hypotheses.
- Simulate the dispersal of ancient arthropods in aquatic environments to assess their capabilities.
- Conduct broad-scale biogeographic analyses by integrating continental plate and ocean current models.
- Compare experimental findings with fossil record data to validate ecological reconstructions.
- Assist with teaching duties and the supervision of Bachelor or Master students.
- Participate in departmental activities and collaborate with international research partners.
Requirements
Degree required: Master's degree in Palaeontology, Earth Sciences, Evolutionary Biology, Ecology, or a related field.
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; excellent written and spoken proficiency.
Instruction: English
- Excellent written and spoken English proficiency.
- Strong interest in physics and fluid dynamics.
- Willingness to travel internationally for experimental work.
- Enthusiasm for developing new research methods.
- Open to all nationalities.
- Must hold a Master's degree or equivalent.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-16 (Europe/Zurich)
Submit a single PDF file containing your CV, a research interest statement (max 2 pages), academic transcripts, and contact details for two references. Send the application via email to the provided address with the subject line 'PhD application_[yourlastname]'.
- CV
- Research interest statement
- Academic transcripts
- 2 reference letters
Contact
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