PhD Scholarship in Climate Change Biodiversity Effects using Comparative Population Genomic Methods at DTU Aqua, Denmark

Are you excited about studying the effects of climate change on biodiversity using cutting-edge genomics and population genetics methods? Do you want to contribute to understanding how climate change impacts aquatic conservation and resource management? If so, the National Institute of Aquatic Resources (DTU Aqua) in Denmark has a fully funded PhD scholarship opportunity for you.

Scholarship Details:

• Start Date: November 2023 (or earlier)
• Duration: 3 years
• Location: Section for Marine Living Resources’ population genetics group, DTU Aqua, Silkeborg, Denmark

Project Summary:

The scholarship is part of the larger Nordic collaborative project, “BlueBioClimate,” funded by various sources including the EU Interreg Öresund-Kattegat-Skagerrak Programme, the Danish Rod and Net License Funds, the Innovation Fund Denmark, private foundations, and the National Institute of Aquatic Resources. The project aims to study climate change biodiversity effects and their responses to inform aquatic conservation and resource management.

Responsibilities and Qualifications:

• Develop novel approaches to integrate genomic information with spatial management and conservation of biodiversity.
• Apply comparative population genomics methods to understand genetic diversity and evolutionary responses to climate change in aquatic populations.
• Collaborate with resource management practitioners at national and regional levels.
• Analyze and integrate genomic data across multiple aquatic taxa (e.g., fish, shellfish, plants) and combine it with new data produced in the project.
• Conduct climate change vulnerability predictions and incorporate ecological connectivity information.
• Prioritize spatial management and conservation actions for selected species, areas, and habitats.
• Possess a Master of Science (M.Sc.) degree in Biology, Computer Science, or Engineering.
• Preferably have a background in population genetics and experience with bioinformatic analyses of large genomic datasets.
• Keen interest in marine and aquatic sciences.
• Good collaborative skills.
• Proficiency in written and spoken English.

Benefits:

• Fully funded PhD scholarship for 3 years.
• International and collaborative research environment.
• Contribution to teaching and student supervision.
• Salary based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations.

Application Deadline: September 15, 2023 (Danish time)

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Application Process:

Submit your complete online application by following these steps:

1. Click on the “Apply now” link provided in the announcement.
2. Fill out the online application form.
3. Attach all required materials in English as one PDF file:

• A cover letter motivating the application
• Curriculum vitae
• Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (including official grading scale)

Contact Information:

For project-related inquiries, contact Senior Researcher Jakob Hemmer-Hansen at jhh@aqua.dtu.dk.

For general information, reach out to Susan Zumbach Johannesen at szjo@aqua.dtu.dk.

Important Note:
You may apply before obtaining your Master’s degree but cannot begin before receiving it.

About DTU Aqua:

DTU Aqua conducts research, provides advice, and contributes to innovation in the sustainable exploitation and management of aquatic resources. The institute investigates various aspects of aquatic organisms, physical and chemical processes, ecosystem dynamics, and more, considering natural and anthropogenic drivers.

About DTU:

The Technical University of Denmark (DTU) is a leading technical university known for its research, education, innovation, and scientific advice. DTU’s mission is to create value using science and engineering to address global challenges, and it operates with an inclusive and informal working environment.

If you’re passionate about combining genomics, climate change, and biodiversity conservation to make a positive impact on aquatic ecosystems, this PhD scholarship opportunity at DTU Aqua could be a transformative step in your academic journey.