The PhD in Evolutionary Biology at the University of Zurich supports doctoral candidates in conducting independent, hypothesis-driven research in evolutionary science. The programme combines required coursework, transferable-skills training, and regular supervision through an academic committee.
Programme type: Doctoral programme (PhD)
Credits (curricular component): At least 12 ECTS (including transferable skills)
Transferable skills: 4 ECTS via transferable-skills courses
Compulsory elements:
- Attendance of “Topics in Evolutionary Biology” (1 ECTS)
- Participation in at least one annual programme retreat (no ECTS)
Doctoral committee: Annual meetings required under MNF doctoral regulations
Dissertation: Required (independent scientific research project)
Language of instruction: Typically English for coursework and academic activities (confirm with your supervisor/department)
Application: Admission is based on doctoral admission rules of the University of Zurich; applicants must identify a suitable supervisor and project fit (as applicable)
Start dates: Check the University of Zurich doctoral admission calendar for the intake periods relevant to your application
Programme Structure
The PhD in Evolutionary Biology combines a dissertation with a structured curricular component. The exact course selection beyond the compulsory elements is agreed with your doctoral committee.
Required curricular components
- Topics in Evolutionary Biology (1 ECTS)
- Transferable skills training (4 ECTS) selected from approved courses
- Annual retreats organised by the programme (participation required; no ECTS)
Coursework (examples)
Depending on your research focus and the decisions of your doctoral committee, you may take courses such as:
- Illustrations in Natural History
- Eco-Physiology and Implications for Behaviour and Health
- Topics in Evolutionary Genetics and Computational Approaches
- Concepts in Evolutionary Biology
- Scientific Writing for Evolutionary Biologists
- Scientific Writing for Organismal Biologists
Dissertation and supervision
- Dissertation: You must complete an independent research project and write a dissertation based on your results.
- Doctoral committee: Annual meetings are required under MNF doctoral regulations; additional meetings may be scheduled as needed.
- Individual course plan: Beyond the compulsory elements, further courses are determined individually with your committee.
Academic requirements
Admission to doctoral study is governed by the University of Zurich ordinance on admission to studies (VZS). The main requirement is a Master’s degree from a university or an equivalent degree.
There are no general GRE/GMAT requirements for this programme. Specific academic expectations (e.g., background in biology, genetics, statistics, or related methods) are assessed in relation to the proposed research project.
English requirements
Applicants must demonstrate English proficiency with one of the following:
- TOEFL iBT: 100
- IELTS: 7.0 (overall)
For the most accurate requirements for your situation (e.g., exemptions), confirm with the University of Zurich doctoral admissions office and your department.
Other requirements
- Each PhD project must be approved by a professor at the Faculty of Science (or by a person with the right to confer a PhD at the Faculty of Science).
- There is no automatic right to be admitted to a PhD programme; admission depends on the suitability of the applicant and the availability/approval of the project.
- Application documents typically include: degree certificates/transcripts, CV, motivation statement, and proof of English proficiency (exact document list may vary—check the University of Zurich application instructions for doctoral study).
Deadlines and start dates: Please refer to the University of Zurich doctoral admission calendar for the relevant intake periods and submission deadlines.
Post-study work options (Switzerland): After completing your PhD at the University of Zurich, you may be eligible to apply for a residence permit for employment in Switzerland, depending on your personal situation and the type of job offer you receive.
- Eligibility is job- and status-dependent: In general, you need a qualifying employment offer and must meet the Swiss requirements for residence and work authorization.
- Timing: Applications are typically made after graduation or when you have secured a suitable position. Processing times vary.
- PhD-related employment: Roles in research, academia, or industry that match your qualifications may strengthen your application.
- Rules can change: Swiss immigration and labour regulations are updated periodically. Always verify the latest guidance with the relevant Swiss authorities and the University of Zurich International Students Office.
Important: This information is general and not legal advice. For country-specific and up-to-date requirements, consult the University of Zurich’s international office and the Swiss migration authorities.
