PhD position: Evolution of Chemoreception in Parasitoids

Overview

PhD position: Evolution of Chemoreception in Parasitoids at Technische University of Munich (TUM). Starting date: Fall 2025. The position is fixed-term (36 months). Salary: TV-L 13, 65%.

Responsibilities

• Investigate the chemoreception networks involved in CHC perception, particularly in the context of prezygotic reproductive isolation within a species complex of parasitoid wasps (Nasonia).
• Employ a suite of advanced techniques—single-sensillum recording (SSR), gas-chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC-MS), electro-antennographic detection (EAD), RNAi knockdowns, and behavioral olfactometer assays—to elucidate how divergence in CHC perception has potentially contributed to prezygotic reproductive isolation.
• Contribute to advancing knowledge on CHC perception mechanisms and speciation mediated by chemosensory evolution; join the Heisenberg group “Evolution of chemical communication” (PD Dr. Jan Buellesbach) within the Plant-Insect Interactions group (Prof. Sara D. Leonhardt) as part of the TUM Department of Life Science Systems.

Qualifications

• Strong interest and motivation in evolutionary and chemical ecological research at different levels.
• MSc/diploma in a relevant field (e.g., evolutionary biology, chemical ecology, sensory biology).
• Strong experience with chemoreception and sensory biological techniques (SSR, GC-EAD, EAG).
• Experience in analytical chemistry (GC-FID, GC-MS).
• Experience in or willingness to learn statistical data analyses, data processing and analytical chemical analyses.
• Excellent command of English language (written & oral) and experience with scientific writing.

Salary & Conditions

• Salary scale: TV-L 13, 65%.
• Note: The position includes ample opportunity to conduct independent scientific research necessary for the completion of a doctorate.

Application and Contact

Application deadline: 3 July 2025. Please send your application via email to Jan Buellesbach ( ) as a single PDF document, including a motivation letter, a short summary of research interests and experience, CV, and contacts of two potential referees. The PhD candidate will be part of the Heisenberg group and the Plant-Insect Interactions team at TUM.

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