PhD position (m/f/d) in Evolutionary Theory (Henshaw lab)

Come join us for a PhD position (m/f/d) in Evolutionary Theory (Henshaw lab)

• Bewerbungsfrist: 7. September 2026
• Eintrittstermin: Zum nächstmöglichen Zeitpunkt.
• Arbeitsumfang: Part-time position (65 %)
• Kennziffer: 00005119

Beschreibung

We are seeking a doctoral student to join the group of Jonathan Henshaw at the University of Freiburg in Germany (https://www.henshaw-lab.com/). We are a primarily theoretical lab working on a broad set of topics in evolutionary biology, with a particular focus on the evolution of animal behaviour. We develop both individual-based simulations and mathematical models (e.g. using evolutionary game theory, adaptive dynamics and quantitative genetics). We put a strong emphasis on a supportive and inclusive working environment. As a doctoral student in our lab, you would have considerable freedom to shape the direction of your projects within these broad areas of interest.

Duration, start date

The initial contract is for 3 years but with the possibility of extension. The start date is flexible. 

Role

As a doctoral student, you will develop simulations or mathematical models to understand the evolution of animal behaviour, with the precise research questions to be decided on in collaboration with Jonathan. You will publish your work in peer-reviewed journals and present it at international conferences. This position comes with a teaching requirement of 2.5 face-to-face hours per week during the semester.

Requirements

Applicants must have:

– A Master’s degree in biology, mathematics, or another relevant discipline

– Experience programming (e.g., in R, Python, Julia or Mathematica) and/or constructing mathematical models

– Proficient spoken and written English

Previous publications in peer-reviewed journals will be seen favourably, but are not required.

How to apply

Applicants should send an email to Jonathan Henshaw (jonathan.henshaw@biologie.uni-freiburg.de) with the following:

– Brief cover letter (max. 1 page) outlining your reasons for wanting to join the lab, your educational background and relevant skills, and (optionally) which topics you would most like to work on

– CV (max. 2 pages)

– Transcripts of Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees

– Contact details for two referees (it is not necessary to send reference letters)

We are committed to building an inclusive workplace and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, national origin, religion or belief, disability, age, or family status.

Please feel free to contact me if you have questions about the position or the application process. I look forward to hearing from you.

The position ist limited for 3 years. The salary will be determined in accordance with TV-L E13.

We will be particularly pleased to receive applications from women for the position advertised here.

Bewerbung

Please send your application in English including supporting documents mentioned above citing the reference number 00005119, by 7. September 2026 at the latest. Please send your application to the following address in written or electronic form:

Jonathan Henshaw
Professor of Theoretical Biology
Faculty of Biology
University of Freiburg
Hauptstraße 1
79104 Freiburg i. Br.
Germany

For further information, please contact Herr Prof. Dr. Jonathan Milne Henshaw on the phone number +49 761 203-2567 or E-Mail jonathan.henshaw@biologie.uni-freiburg.de.

General and legal remarks

Full-time positions may generally be split up into two or more part-time positions, provided that there are no formal or legal barriers. Candidates are selected in accordance with the provisions of the AGG (Allgemeines Gleichbehandlungsgesetz – German General Equal Treatment Act).
Applicants with disabilities (Schwerbehinderte Menschen) will be given preferential consideration in case of equal qualification.
The department offering the position is liable for the content of this job posting. Textual errors do not constitute a basis for any claims or rights. The relevant human resources department has sole responsibility for all legal transactions made within the context of the selection and hiring process.
Please note that breaches in privacy and unauthorized access by third parties cannot be excluded in communication by unencrypted email.

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Werden Sie Teil der Universität Freiburg, einer der renommiertesten und forschungsstärksten Universitäten Deutschlands – mit einer einzigartigen Vielfalt und Verschränkung von Fächern und Perspektiven in einer der beliebtesten Städte im Herzen Europas.