We are seeking a highly motivated PhD student interested in genomics, evolution, and forest ecosystems to join an
exciting research project at Université Laval (Québec, Canada), on pathogen adaptation under global change. This
interdisciplinary project combines population genomics, landscape genomics, and evolutionary ecology.
Project – Convergent adaptation and landscape genomics in forest fungal pathogens
Forests cover nearly 40% of Canada’s land area and are essential for biodiversity, climate regulation, and the economy.
However, forest diseases are increasing due to climate warming, global trade, and shifting host distributions.
Developing proactive disease management strategies requires a strong fundamental understanding of how forest
pathogens evolve and adapt. This PhD project addresses this critical knowledge gap. This project investigates the
environmental and evolutionary processes shaping adaptation in forest fungal pathogens under global change. The
aim is to test two main hypotheses: (i) abiotic factors beyond climate, such as edaphic variables, are key drivers of
fungal adaptation and (ii) closely related species tend to rely on shared genes or molecular pathways to adapt to
similar environments. The research focuses on five Ophiostoma species using extensive population sampling across
eastern North America. Population genomic analyses (genetic structure, diversity, selection scans) will be combined
with genotype-environment association methods and comparative genomics to identify shared adaptive loci. The
project will provide fundamental insights into the evolutionary basis of forest disease dynamics.
• Fully funded PhD position for 3 years
• Expected start: Fall 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter
• The student will also be eligible for numerous competitive faculty- and university-level scholarships
• Supportive and collaborative research group
• Opportunities to attend national and international conferences
Candidate profile
• MSc in bioinformatics, genomics, evolutionary biology, or a related field
• Strong interest in evolutionary genomics and/or forest pathology
• Programming skills (R, Python, bash
• Laboratory experience is appreciated
• Independent, motivated, and curious researcher
Applicants should submit a resume, academic transcripts, and contact information for referees to
pauline.hessenauer@sbf.ulaval.ca
Application deadline : 1st of August, 202
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