Researcher in Computational Evolutionary Biology

The Department of Zoology is one of the departments within the Faculty of Science and has approximately 80 employees including researchers, PhD students and administrative staff. Research and education at the department occurs in an international environment and is focused on animal biology. Our research covers a wide range of topics, from evolutionary ecology and genetics to studies of behavior and morphology. More information about us, please visit: the Department of Zoology

SciLifeLab is a national research infrastructure based in Stockholm and Uppsala. In Stockholm, SciLifeLab is located on Campus Solna, where research groups from Stockholm University, the Royal Institute of Technology, and the Karolinska Institute conduct internationally outstanding research in the life sciences.

Project description

The project focuses on studying the evolution of evolvability using computational simulations. Evidence from evolutionary developmental biology suggests that evolvability can change rapidly in the nonlinear regions of the genotype–phenotype map, while more recent empirical results indicate that it can remain constant over long evolutionary periods. This project will address this apparent contradiction by using computational models of development to simulate the evolution of evolvability.

Main responsibilities

The main tasks include:

1. Large-scale simulations of development and evolution under different conditions using existing software (written in Fortran).
2. Analysis of data using quantitative genetics tools (e.g., calculation and comparison of genetic and phenotypic covariance matrices).
3. Interpretation of results using theoretical concepts from evo-devo theory.

Qualification requirements

Researchers are appointed primarily for purposes of research and must hold a Swedish doctoral degree or an equivalent degree from another country.

Assessment criteria

Particular emphasis will be placed on scientific excellence. Experience and expertise in computational analysis, documented competence in evolutionary biology, and proficiency in using necessary software will be considered. Experience in a compiled programming language like Fortran, as well as with high-level languages – for example, R – for analyses, is also required. The candidate must have excellent skills in English, both spoken and written.

About the employment

The position involves full-time employment for a maximum of 6 months. Start date 2025-04-01 or as per agreement.

We offer

At Stockholm University, you will experience the dynamic interaction between higher education and research, creating an exciting and creative environment. You will work at Campus Solna, located at SciLifeLab, and have access to a dynamic research setting. You will also be part of SciLifeLab and the Wallenberg National Program for Data-Driven Life Science – one of Sweden’s largest and most ambitious research initiatives, focusing on using data, computational methods, and artificial intelligence to study biological systems and processes.

Stockholm University strives to be a workplace free from discrimination and with equal opportunities for all.

Contact

Further information about the position can be obtained from Assistant Professor Lisandro Milocco, lisandro.milocco@zoologi.su.se.

Application

Apply for the position at Stockholm University's recruitment system. Attach a personal letter and CV as well as the attachments requested in the application form. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that the application is complete in accordance with the instructions in the job advertisement, and that it is submitted before the deadline.

The instructions for applicants are available at: How to apply for a position.