PhD Candidate in Parasite and Plankton Behavioural Biology and Ecology at Norwegian University of Science and Technology

University: Norwegian University of Science and Technology
Location: Trondheim, Norway
Department: Department of Biology
Research Section: Marine Sciences
Application Deadline: April 12, 2026

Fully Funded PhD in Marine Parasite and Zooplankton Ecology

The Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) is offering a fully funded PhD position in parasite and plankton behavioural biology and ecology within the Department of Biology. The position is based in the Marine Sciences section, where researchers investigate marine ecosystem functioning and sustainable ocean resource use, combining marine ecology and aquaculture research.

This doctoral project is embedded in the research group Fish Parasites, Health and Welfare, with a strong focus on the parasitic salmon louse and its impact on Norwegian aquaculture.

Research Focus: Behaviour and Ecophysiology of Sea Lice and Zooplankton

The PhD project will explore the behavioural biology and ecophysiology of sea lice and selected zooplankton species. The research integrates laboratory experimentation, image and video-based behavioural tracking, and computational data analysis.

Key Research Themes

• Behavioural responses of sea lice and zooplankton to environmental stimuli

• Ecological interpretation of parasite and plankton behaviour

• Method development for behavioural experiments

• Use of image and video detection systems

• Laboratory-based culture studies with potential fieldwork components

The project allows flexibility to tailor aspects of the research to the candidate’s expertise and scientific interests.

Doctoral Responsibilities

As a PhD candidate at NTNU, you will:

• Complete 30 ECTS credits as part of the doctoral education programme

• Conduct high-quality independent research

• Publish scientific articles and contribute to science communication

• Write and defend a PhD thesis

• Participate in the Fish Parasites, Health and Welfare research group

• Engage in national and international research collaborations and conferences

Required Qualifications

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Master’s degree in Biology or equivalent (five-year study programme with 120 master-level credits)

• Strong academic record equivalent to grade B or better on the NTNU scale

• Eligibility for admission to the PhD Programme in Biology

• Excellent written and spoken English skills

• Experience with zooplankton, parasites, or aquaculture

• Laboratory research experience

Master’s students may apply, but degree completion must be documented before appointment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with behavioural experimental design

• Programming skills in R or Python

• Strong analytical and data interpretation skills

Research Environment at NTNU

Norwegian University of Science and Technology is a leading technical-scientific university with a strong emphasis on sustainability and interdisciplinary research. The Marine Sciences section collaborates closely with the aquaculture industry through research platforms addressing salmon lice and fish health challenges.

The Fish Parasites, Health and Welfare group offers a collaborative and inclusive environment with strong industry engagement and international research networks.

Salary and Employment Conditions

• Three-year doctoral appointment (with possibility of up to 12 months of additional career-promoting work)

• Annual gross salary: NOK 550,800

• Membership in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund

• Access to structured doctoral training and career development

• Free basic Norwegian language courses

• Modern laboratory facilities and international research collaboration opportunities

Admission to the PhD Programme in Biology must be secured within three months of employment.

Application Requirements

Applications must be submitted electronically via the official recruitment system before the deadline. The application must include:

• One-page cover letter outlining research interests and motivation

• CV

• Transcripts and diplomas (Bachelor’s and Master’s)

• Master’s thesis (or draft if recently submitted)

• List of publications and research contributions (if applicable)

• Contact details for three referees

All documents must be in English or a Scandinavian language.

Life in Trondheim, Norway

Trondheim is a modern European city with approximately 200,000 inhabitants. It offers high living standards, strong welfare services, excellent educational infrastructure, and outstanding access to nature. Norway consistently ranks among the world’s best countries for quality of life, equality, and environmental sustainability.

Advance Marine Behavioural Ecology Research

This PhD position provides an exceptional opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research on marine parasite ecology, zooplankton behaviour, aquaculture sustainability, and marine ecosystem dynamics.

If you are passionate about marine biology, behavioural ecology, and applied aquaculture research, this doctoral opportunity at NTNU offers a strong academic foundation and impactful career pathway.

Apply now at: https://www.jobbnorge.no/en/available-jobs/job/296771/phd-candidate-in-parasite-and-plankton-behavioural-biology-and-ecology