PhD Funded Position in Biology; Butterflies and Pesticides at Lund University, Sweden
Lund University is inviting applications for a Doctoral Student in Biology position focused on one of the most intriguing questions in insect science: how butterflies orient using their biological compass and how this process is affected by pesticide exposure. Hosted within the Division of Sensory Biology, this fully funded four-year PhD combines sensory biology, neurobiology, migration ecology, and ecotoxicology. The project is part of the interdisciplinary iENT project, which aims to improve environmental risk assessment methods.
The Doctoral Student position in Biology at Lund University offers an exceptional opportunity to investigate how pesticides affect butterfly navigation and insect sensory systems. For students interested in combining neurobiology, ecology, and environmental science, this fully funded PhD provides rigorous training, international collaboration, and the chance to contribute to pressing questions in biodiversity and environmental risk assessment. Applications are open until 3 June 2026.
PhD Project Overview
Butterflies are among the most remarkable navigators in the animal kingdom, using celestial and magnetic cues to guide long-distance movement. This doctoral project investigates the biological mechanisms underlying this orientation system and how exposure to pesticides may disrupt it.
The research will address two linked questions:
- How do butterflies process directional information through their internal compass?
- How do commonly used pesticides alter this navigation system?
By connecting mechanistic neurobiology with ecological risk assessment, the project contributes to a growing effort to understand how chemical pollutants affect insect populations and ecosystems.
Research Environment at Lund University
The PhD candidate will join a collaborative research group in the Division of Sensory Biology at Lund University.
The laboratory focuses on the mechanistic effects of pesticides on insects and emphasizes:
- Scientific collaboration
- Open communication
- International partnerships
- Safe and supportive mentoring
- Interdisciplinary research
The project includes opportunities for international mobility and collaboration with researchers working on environmental toxicology and insect behavior.
Academic Background: Why This Research Matters
Pollinator and insect declines have raised urgent questions about the ecological impacts of pesticides. Yet many environmental assessments focus on mortality rather than sublethal effects on behavior.
Navigation is essential for:
- Migration
- Foraging
- Mate finding
- Habitat selection
Disruption of orientation behavior may have significant consequences for butterfly survival and ecosystem stability.
This PhD project seeks to bridge that gap by integrating mechanistic sensory biology with ecotoxicological research.
Main Duties as a Doctoral Student
The successful candidate will devote most of their time to doctoral research and thesis preparation.
Responsibilities include:
- Designing and conducting behavioral experiments
- Performing controlled pesticide exposure studies
- Collecting field and laboratory data
- Analyzing results using quantitative methods
- Participating in doctoral courses and seminars
- Presenting findings at conferences
- Publishing in peer-reviewed journals
Up to 20% of working time may be dedicated to teaching, particularly in courses related to neurobiology and biology.
Candidate Profile
Lund University is seeking a motivated candidate with strong analytical and practical research skills.
Admission Requirements
Applicants must have:
- A master’s degree or equivalent second-cycle qualification
- At least 240 ECTS credits, including 60 credits at the second-cycle level
- An independent research project of at least 30 ECTS in a relevant subject
- Excellent English proficiency
Additional Qualifications
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively
- Programming skills in MATLAB, R, or Python
- Strong laboratory experience
- Numerical and logical aptitude
- Valid Category B driving licence
- Excellent planning and organizational skills
Preferred Experience
- Sensory biology
- Neurobiology
- Migration ecology
- Ecotoxicology
- Behavioral studies with insects
- Fieldwork and pesticide exposure experiments
- Teaching experience
Funding and Employment Conditions
This is a fully funded doctoral position with the following terms:
- Full-time employment (100%)
- Four years of doctoral study
- Start date: 1 September 2026 or by agreement
- Extension possible if teaching duties are assigned
- Monthly salary according to Swedish doctoral salary scales
Swedish doctoral employment includes:
- Generous annual leave
- Public pension contributions
- Parental leave benefits
- Comprehensive healthcare access
- Strong job security and worker protections
Why Pursue a PhD at Lund University?
Founded in 1666, Lund University is one of Scandinavia’s leading research universities, with approximately 46,000 students and 8,500 employees.
The Faculty of Science hosts:
- Around 1,900 students
- More than 330 PhD students
- Approximately 730 employees
Lund offers a vibrant scientific community and an exceptional quality of life in southern Sweden.
Required Application Documents
Applicants must submit the following in English:
- CV and personal letter explaining motivation and project fit
- Degree certificates and academic transcripts
- Additional supporting materials such as recommendation letters or references
- Reference number: PA2026/1479
- APPLY NOW
- Application Deadline: 3 June 2026 Applications submitted after this date will not be considered.
Contact Information
For scientific inquiries, contact:: Lina Herbertsson; Email: lina.herbertsson@biol.lu.se & Reference number: PA2026/1479
Who Should Apply?
This PhD is ideal for graduates interested in:
- Insect sensory biology
- Neurobiology
- Migration ecology
- Ecotoxicology
- Environmental risk assessment
- Behavioral ecology
- Conservation biology
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is this PhD position fully funded?
Yes. Doctoral students at Lund University are employed full-time and receive a salary and full employment benefits.
What organism will be studied?
The project focuses on butterflies and how their orientation systems respond to pesticide exposure.
Do I need programming experience?
Yes. Experience with MATLAB, R, or Python is considered important.
Is fieldwork part of the project?
Yes. Data collection will occur during specific periods and may include work in other countries.
Is a driving licence required?
Yes. A valid Category B driving licence is listed as a requirement.
What is the start date?
The position begins on 1 September 2026, or as otherwise agreed.
How much teaching is involved?
Up to 20% of working time may be allocated to teaching and departmental duties.
Can international students apply?
Yes. Lund University welcomes applications from qualified candidates worldwide.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline is 3 June 2026.
Where is Lund University located?
Lund is located in southern Sweden, close to Copenhagen and major European research hubs.
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