Open positions
Currently one open position
- PhD Position in Paleogenomics and Geochemistry
PhD position in Paleogenomics and Geochemistry
PhD position in Paleogenomics and Geochemistry
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
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