Open positions

Currently one open position

  • PhD Position in Paleogenomics and Geochemistry

PhD position in Paleogenomics and Geochemistry

Labormitarbeiter nimmt Probe eines Knochenfragmentes

The Pinhasi Lab is inviting applications for a fully funded PhD position to join the GENESIS project pioneers innovative methodologies to enhance the recovery of ancient DNA (aDNA) from challenging archaeological substrates such as sediments, coprolites, and other non-skeletal sources.

The project

The project seeks to overcome persistent limitations in aDNA research—namely, low DNA yield and inhibition from organic-rich materials—through advanced geochemical and molecular techniques.

The goal is to recover various host-DNA sources from complex environments suitable for genomic and metagenomic analyses. The successful candidate will develop and optimize protocols involving heavy liquid density separation of samples, inhibition assays tailored for aDNA pipelines, authentication methods for detecting modern contamination, and other geochemically-informed customised protocols. 

In addition to the wet-lab component, the research involves metagenomics (human and animal ancient gut and oral microbiomes, pathogens, food sources, etc.) and genomic analysis of human and specific pathogens and parasite taxa.  

Research activities will include

  • Sequencing and analysis of ancient human DNA
  • Metagenomic analysis of ancient microbiomes (oral and gut)
  • Pathogen and parasite DNA analysis

Your profile

Required:

  •  MSc in Biology, Archaeological Science, or Biological Anthropology

Prefered:

  • Experience with next-generation sequencing (NGS) and paleogenomics
  • Background in bioinformatics and data analysis
  • Background in molecular experiment

Application Requirements

  • Curriculum Vitae: Maximum 4 pages, including contact details of at least two academic referees
  • Motivation Letter: Maximum 1 page

 

How to Apply

Application Deadline: 20.06.2025

Start Date: As early as 01.07.2025

Submit the required documents via email to: ron.pinhasi@univie.ac.at

Gender equality, diversity and non-discrimination

© Manuel Lavoriero

The University pursues a non-discriminatory employment policy and values equal opportunities, as well as diversity (http://diversity.univie.ac.at/). The University lays special emphasis on increasing the number of women in senior and in academic positions. Given equal qualifications, preference will be given to female applicants.

The University of Vienna has an institutionalised gender equality policy and within this framework VDSEE strives to strengthen the career development of female scientists at all qualifications levels and to support compatibility between family and work/training.

The Gender Equality and Diversity unit of the University of Vienna provides services which, based on the issue of gender equality, aim at ensuring equal opportunities for all university members.

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