PhD Student (m/f/d) | Genetics of Behaviour Full-time NEW

PhD Student (m/f/d) | Genetics of Behaviour

Young Researchers Bonn Neurosciences

Job Offer from April 16, 2026

The Max-Planck-Institute for Neurobiology of Behaviour – caesar (MPINB) is a neuroethology institute located in Bonn that studies how the collective activity of the vast numbers of interconnected neurons in the brain gives rise to the plethora of animal behaviours. Our research spans a large range of scales from the nano-scale imaging of brain circuitry, to large-scale functional imaging of brain circuitry during behaviour, to the quantification of natural animal behaviours.

The Research Group “Genetics of Behaviour” is researching the evolution of behavioural diversity and the genetic, molecular and neuronal changes driving these events. To do this, we concentrate on the evolution of predation and kin-recognition behaviours found in the roundworm species Pristionchus pacificus and compare this to the microbial feeding species Caenorhaditis elegans. To support our research, we are looking for a PhD Student (m/f/d) – Genetics of Behaviour.

The Project

We seek a highly motivated researcher to investigate the genetic, molecular, and neural circuit mechanisms underlying the evolution of novel behaviours. Using comparative approaches in the nematodes P. pacificus and C. elegans, you will investigate how their nervous systems evolved and diverged to support predation and kin recognition in P. pacificus. This project offers opportunities to employ cutting-edge techniques, including CRISPR genome editing, calcium imaging, optogenetics, and behavioural analysis, to uncover the mechanisms involved.

Your Qualifications

• A master's degree in molecular biology, evolution and ecology, neuroscience, or related fields.
• Strong interest in nematodes, neurogenetics, and investigating the influence of evolution on behavioural adaptations.
• Prior experience with nematode genetics, molecular biology, and light microscopy would be beneficial.
• Some knowledge of at least one programming language would be advantageous.
• Interest in developing new methods and tools for emerging model systems.

What We Offer

• A cutting-edge research environment.
• A pleasant working atmosphere and a multidisciplinary, international team.
• Salary in line with the Max Planck regulations.
• Subsidised job ticket, a family-friendly culture, and flexible working hours.

MPINB is committed to promoting equal opportunities and diversity. We welcome applications from all backgrounds, regardless of gender, ethnicity, disability or sexual orientation. We are aiming to increase the percentage of women in areas where they are under-represented. We therefore explicitly encourage women to apply. People with disabilities with comparable qualifications will receive preferential status.

Please upload your CV and a letter of motivation to our application portal.

If you have any further questions, please contact: Dr. James Lightfoot, james.lightfoot@mpinb.mpg.de