PhD Research Fellow in Population Genomics
Explore the genetic impacts of climate change on North Atlantic killer whales through cutting-edge population genomics research.
Best for:Best for candidates with a strong background in evolutionary biology, population genetics, or bioinformatics who are passionate about ancient DNA and computational genomics.
Overview
This four-year PhD position at the Natural History Museum (NHM), University of Oslo, focuses on reconstructing the colonization of high-latitude regions by North Atlantic killer whales during the Pleistocene–Holocene transition. The project combines ancient and contemporary genomic data to analyze genetic diversity and demographic changes, offering insights into evolutionary responses to past climate shifts. The successful candidate will conduct laboratory work on ancient DNA, bioinformatic analysis of Next Generation Sequencing data, and population genomic modeling. The position includes 25% career-enhancing activities such as teaching, supervision, and public outreach, and is part of the PhD programme at the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences.
What you'll do
- Conduct laboratory work on ancient DNA extraction and processing of killer whale samples.
- Perform bioinformatic analysis of Next Generation Sequencing data using command-line tools in high-performance computing environments.
- Quantify changes in genetic diversity and variation over time using population genomic methods.
- Apply demographic inference techniques and coalescent methods to analyze genomic data.
- Develop and implement computational models to study population expansions and genetic signatures.
- Collaborate with team members on research, teaching, supervision, and public outreach activities.
- Present research findings at conferences and publish results in peer-reviewed journals.
- Participate in career-enhancing activities such as teaching and mentoring.
Requirements
Degree required: An MSc degree in evolutionary biology, population genetics, bioinformatics, or a related field.
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; proficiency level must meet University of Oslo’s requirements for PhD applicants (e.g., IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 90).
Instruction: English
- Research experience in population genetics or population genomics.
- Experience with bioinformatic analysis of Next Generation Sequencing data.
- Proficiency in command-line tools and high-performance computing environments.
- Programming or scripting skills in R, Python, or bash.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
- Applicants must have an MSc degree in a relevant field.
- The average grade for the Bachelor’s degree must be C or better in the Norwegian educational system.
- The average grade for the Master’s degree must be B or better in the Norwegian educational system.
- The Master’s thesis must have a grade of B or better in the Norwegian educational system.
- No specific nationality or residency restrictions mentioned.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 14th October 2026
Applicants must submit their application through the University of Oslo’s electronic recruiting system, Jobbnorge. The application must include a cover letter, CV, a statement on career plans, educational certificates, English proficiency documentation (if applicable), and contact details for 2-3 references. All documents must be uploaded as separate PDF files.
- Cover letter with a statement of motivation and research interests
- CV summarizing education, positions, academic work, and relevant experience
- Statement explaining how a PhD in population genomics fits into the applicant’s career plan (max 1 page)
- Copies of educational certificates and transcripts of records (as a single PDF)
- Documentation of English proficiency (if applicable)
- Names and contact details of 2-3 references
Contact
Ulla Schildt· NHM
Create a free profile to unlock your personal match score, the full requirements, funding details and how to apply — in English or Persian.