Principal Research Engineer in Evolutionary Biology

We have the power of over 40,000 students and co-workers. Students who provide hope for the future. Co-workers who contribute to Linköping University meeting the challenges of the day. Our fundamental values rest on credibility, trust and security. By having the courage to think freely and innovate, our actions together, large and small, contribute to a better world. We look forward to receiving your application!
We are looking for a Principal Research Engineer in Evolutionary Biology.

The position
For this position we are looking for a candidate with a strong background in quantitative genetics and bioinformatics. The project explores the molecular mechanisms underlying evolutionary transitions from domestication to re-wilding (feralisation) using a series of 500 feral chicken samples derived from Hawaii and Bermuda. In particular, the project will involve a large amount of Methylation-based Whole Genome Sequencing data (using data generated by a MeDIP-seq based approach). The project will require GWAS analysis of this methylation data (methQTL, n=400), as well as gene expression data (n=1500 transcriptomes) and phenotypic (behavioural) data on the same individuals. The aim of the project is to establish causation along the methylation - gene expression – phenotype axis to map the genes and polymorphisms underlying the genetic basis of methylation variation, and ultimately phenotypic variation. Multiple bioinformatic tools will be used, mainly centred around causation analysis. Representative papers for the methylation QTL analysis and the feral birds can be found in the following articles: Höglund et al. 2020 Nature Ecology and Evolution (https://doi.org/10.1038/s41559-020-01310-1), Johnsson et al. 2016 Genetics 202, 327-340, Johnsson et al. Nature Communications 7, 1-11. T

The person we need

The person we need has a strong background in quantitative genetics and bioinformatics.

The following education, experience and expertise are required:


• The position requires a doctorate or an equivalent degree from a foreign university, with this being awarded before the start date of the position.

In addition, the following education, experience and expertise will strengthen an application:


• Experience with methylation data analysis is desirable, as is expertise with GWAS/ QTL mapping.

The workplace

The position is located in the Biology Division at The Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology (IFM)

The employment

100% for 11 months and 20 days.

The position will commence by agreement.

Salary and employment benefits

The university applies individual salaries.

More information about employee benefits is available here.

Union representatives
Information about union representatives, see Help for applicants.

Application procedure

Apply for the position by clicking the “Apply” button below. Your application must reach Linköping University no later than 12 February, 2024.

Applications and documents received after the date above will not be considered.

We welcome applicants with different backgrounds, experiences and perspectives - diversity enriches our work and helps us grow. Preserving everybody's equal value, rights and opportunities is a natural part of who we are. Read more about our work with: Equal opportunities.




We look forward to receiving your application!





Linköping university has framework agreements and wishes to decline direct contacts from staffing- and recruitment companies as well as vendors of job advertisements.