PhD: Dynamic genomes and invasive species

About the position

The Faculty of Biosciences and Aquaculture at Nord University invites applications from outstanding candidates for a PhD fellowship within the project “Dynamic genomes, invasive species: identifying genomic targets for sustainable biocontrol". 

Understanding genomic and epigenomic adaptations that enable successful invasions is crucial to bio-sustainable control measures aimed at protecting food security, aiding conservation and informing management policy. You will use advanced novel genomic approaches to assemble, annotate and explore the genome biology of a non-invasive and one of the most harmful invasive gastropods. This study promises unprecedented resolution of mollusc genomes, which will be utilised to address genome evolution, using cutting-edge comparative genomic analyses and identify targets for responsible sustainable control.

The position is based in Bodø and will be available from January 2026.

Qualification requirements

The candidate should hold an MSc degree (or equivalent) in biology, bioinformatics, genetics, molecular ecology, or a related field. Solid knowledge and practical experience in molecular ecology, population genetics, and statistical and bioinformatic analyses are required. An interest in, and preferably prior experience with, genomic analysis and bioinformatics is considered an advantage.

We are looking for highly motivated, creative, and ambitious applicants with an excellent academic record and the ability to collaborate effectively within a multidisciplinary team. For non-native English speakers, proficiency in both spoken and written English is essential, and must be documented either through the Norwegian Higher Education Entrance Qualification or internationally recognized certificates. 

• Applicants from outside the EU/EEA must submit NOKUT approval of their master’s degree
• Grade average of B or better (or equivalent score) both for the programme in total and the master’s thesis. See admission requirements: PhD in Biosciences

It is assumed that the successful candidate will be admitted to the faculty’s doctoral program. A final project outline with a detailed plan for the doctoral work must be approved no later than three months after the start of the position. Termination may be considered if admission is not granted within this timeframe, due to failure to submit annual progress reports and/or significant lack of academic progress or failure to fulfill required duties. For admission requirements and regulations, please see our web page.

Proficiency in Norwegian or another Scandinavian language is considered an advantage. The thesis may be written in English or Norwegian (or a Scandinavian language).

Candidates must meet Nord University’s residency requirements.

Candidates who already hold a PhD degree will not be considered for the position.

Qualified applicants will be ranked according to the following criteria:

• Theme and perspectives from the applicant’s master’s study. 
• The applicant’s description of motivation for the doctoral work and opportunities for completion
• Relevant experience from research work
• Ability to work independently, goal-oriented and systematically
• Personal suitability

We offer

The annual salary for doctoral researchers (code 1017) is set at wage level 54, NOK 550 800,- in the Norwegian State Salary Scale.

• Benefits from the Government Pension Fund, like better deals on loans, insurance, and pensions
• Creative and collegial working environment
• A workplace with progressive development
• Flexible working hours  
• Active university sports team

General information

The person who is appointed must abide by the applicable laws, agreements, and directives. The responsibilities and duties associated with the position may change with future reorganization at Nord University.

The public sector workforce is expected to reflect the diversity of the population in general. Nord University therefore encourages qualified candidates with disabilities, gaps in their CV, immigrant backgrounds or different life experience to apply. 

If applicants indicate they have disabilities or gaps in their CV, their details may be used anonymously for the purposes of governmental annual review.

Application process

Applicants will be evaluated by an internal expert committee. Relevant applicants will be invited for an interview, trial lecture or other presentations.

The Faculty reserve the right not to hire applicants who may be scientifically qualified but who do not meet other criteria such as language, educational background or personal characteristics.

Application

• Application letter with description of your motivation for applying for the position
• Complete CV (education, work and teaching experience and overview of any scientific publications)
• Copy of diploma for both bachelor and master education and relevant certificates
• Copy of the applicant’s master’s thesis as a PDF file
• Name and contact information of 1-3 references (name, your relation to the person, email and phone number)
• Other activity that is considered relevant for the position, and wishes to be taken into account in the assessment

After the application period has expired a list of applicants will be published. Note that, in special cases, the identity of particular applicants to a position may be made public even when that applicant has requested that their application be processed confidentially. Applicants requesting an exemption from publication of their identity must explain their reasons for doing so in their application. In this case, advance notice will be given in the event of a decision to make any information about the applicant public.

Refnr. 30238700