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Opening PhD position in population genomics and biodiversity conservation

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We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to join an exciting research project exploring the spatiotemporal dynamics of hybridization between the European wildcat (Felis silvestris) and the domestic cat (Felis catus). This project addresses a timely and societally relevant challenge at the intersection of evolutionary biology and conservation.

The PhD position is fully funded for four years and will be based at the Department of Genetics and Evolution, University of Geneva (UNIGE), within the PhD School of Life Sciences (lifesciencesphd.unige.ch/). The Department of Genetics and Evolution offers a stimulating scientific environment, an excellent infrastructure, and is located on the Science Campus in the heart of the city of Geneva. Both English and French are working languages in the laboratory. More details about the research group can be found at: https://genev.unige.ch/research/laboratory/Mathias-Currat. The PhD candidate will work in a dynamic, international research environment and benefit from close collaborations with researchers from the Swiss Federal Research Institute (WSL) and the University of Zurich (UZH).

The project aims to uncover how introgression from domestic cats spreads through wildcat populations across space and time, identify the key ecological and evolutionary processes driving these patterns, and assess the effectiveness of alternative conservation strategies. By combining population genomics, spatially explicit modelling, and applied conservation, this PhD offers a unique opportunity to contribute both to fundamental research and to evidence-based wildlife management. The project is embedded within the COST Action Genetic Nature Observation and Action (www.cost.eu/actions/CA23121/).

 

Requirements

• Master’s degree in biology or an equivalent field;
• Skills in population genetics, genomics, biostatistics, and English;
• Skills in modelling, bioinformatics, and ecology are an asset;
• Experience in high precision labwork is an asset;
• Strong interest in applied conservation biology and interdisciplinary research;
• Good communication skills and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively;

 

Terms of employment

• Duration: 4 years, subject to successful completion of the first year (trial period);
• Start date: Position available from 1st May 2026;
• Salary: According to the SNSF salary scale for doctoral candidates at the University of Geneva;

 

Other conditions

The PhD candidate will participate in teaching and other laboratory activities, as well as in the doctoral program in Ecology and Evolution at the University of Geneva (ecovo.unige.ch).

 

How to apply

Applications should be sent as a single PDF file by email to Dr. Mathias Currat (mathias.currat@unige.ch). Initial review begins on February 20, 2026, but applications will be accepted until the position is filled. The application should include: a CV including publication list if existing, a cover letter explaining the motivation for the project, a brief summary of the master project and optionally two letters of reference, including one from the Master’s thesis supervisor.

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