A 2026 Crick PhD project with Pontus Skoglund.

Project background and description

This PhD-student will join the Crick ancient genomics laboratory and Group Leader Pontus Skoglund to study evolution and history in the human past. We use approaches in computational biology, bioinformatics, population genetics and statistical genetics to address questions about human evolution and ancestry, using thousands of ancient genomes sequenced in our lab. The overarching goal is to understand central episodes in the human past, and their impact on human societies and health.  
In the 2026 Crick programme, we are primarily calling for students with an interest in computational genomics in three areas. 
Ancient human history: We are sequencing hundreds of ancient human genomes on a regular basis, and combine them with previously published genomes to understand human history in Europe and surrounding regions using high-resolution ancestry reconstruction developed in our lab [1], integrated with archaeology and written sources. This project is open to candidates with a background in ancient DNA, history or archaeology.

Statistical genetics: We are also deeply interested in using large time-series of ancient genomes to study natural selection [2], complex structural variation, and complex traits. It could also include studying other regions and other time frames. We are also increasingly interested in applying genome-wide association (GWAS) to ancient genomes. This project benefits 
Ancient pathogen genomics: We search for pathogen DNA in the metagenomes we sequence from ancient DNA. The goal is to understand the functional genomics and evolution and prevalence of pathogens in human prehistory and history [3]. The project includes using metagenomic approaches to search for viral and bacterial pathogen DNA in large ancient DNA data sets in the lab and the literature, and follow up potential positives with targeted phylogenetic-, and functional genomic analysis. This project would benefit from a background in pathogen genomics, computational biology, paleopathology, ancient DNA and/or evolutionary genetics.
Only one studentship is available with this group and the precise project will be decided in consultation with the supervisor.

Candidate background

I am looking for driven, highly organised, and collegial candidates with a documented ability to acquire strong quantitative and computational skills. The ideal candidate will have a strong academic track record in one or more of relevant fields such as: population genetics, human genetics, pathogen genomics, statistical genetics, computational biology, mathematics, history, archaeology and/or ancient DNA.

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