University of Geneva Switzerland PhD Scholarship 2025 (Fully Funded)

The University of Geneva (UNIGE) invites applications for a fully funded 4-year PhD position in the Microbiota-Gut-Brain Axis and Behaviour Lab, led by Dr. Joanito Liberti at the Department of Genetics and Evolution. This opportunity offers a deep dive into interdisciplinary research focused on the interplay between gut microbiota, neurophysiology, and behaviour in bees.

If you're passionate about behavioural ecology, microbiology, and evolutionary biology, this PhD program provides a world-class academic environment, access to advanced research technologies, and a competitive salary - all within one of Europe’s top research institutions.

What the PhD Position Offers

1. A fully funded 4-year PhD position starting between September and December 2025
2. Affiliation with the PhD Program in Ecology and Evolution at UNIGE
3. (Program Info)
4. Access to state-of-the-art research facilities:
5. Automated behavioural tracking
6. Next-generation sequencing
7. Advanced microscopy
8. Fully equipped molecular biology and microbiology labs
9. A collaborative and international research environment
10. Opportunities for partnerships with other labs in Switzerland and abroad
11. Competitive salary under Swiss university regulations

Research Overview

The PhD project will explore bi-directional communication between the gut microbiota and animal behaviour, with a specific focus on social bee species. The lab aims to understand how gut symbionts influence brain function and social behaviour, and how these microbial interactions have evolved.

Research directions may include:

1. Investigating how gut microbiota regulate bee neurophysiology and behaviour
2. Exploring how social structures impact microbiome dynamics
3. Conducting molecular analysis through metagenomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, or epigenomics

Open to applicants of all nationalities.

Applicants should meet the following requirements:

1. Hold an MSc degree in evolutionary biology, behavioural ecology, microbiology, molecular biology, or a related field
2. Demonstrated experience in behavioural research and experimental design
3. Familiarity with NGS technologies and associated bioinformatics tools
4. Proficiency in R, Python, or Bash, and experience with Linux
5. Strong scientific writing and data analysis skills
6. Experience working with bees is a plus but not required

Application deadline: May 25, 2025

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted shortly after the deadline for interviews.

How to apply:

Submit your application as a single PDF to Dr. Joanito Liberti at:

[email protected]

Your application must include:

1. A one-page cover letter explaining your research interests and relevant experience
2. A curriculum vitae (CV)
3. Academic transcripts and degree certificates
4. Names and contact information for two academic referees

About the University of Geneva

The University of Geneva is ranked among the top 1 percent of global universities, offering a vibrant, multicultural academic environment. Located in the heart of Europe, UNIGE is known for its excellence in life sciences, behavioural ecology, and interdisciplinary research.

Final Thoughts

This is an exceptional opportunity to join a leading European research team focused on understanding the molecular and behavioural dynamics between the microbiome and the brain in social animals. With full funding, international collaboration, and access to cutting-edge lab tools, this position is ideal for aspiring researchers ready to contribute to high-impact science.

Submit your application by May 25, 2025, to begin your doctoral journey at the University of Geneva.

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