21.04.2025
admissions
Lehti Saag
PhD (Gene Technology)
Institute of Genomics
Estonian Biocentre
Research Fellow of Ancient DNA
Riia 23b-304a
Institute of Genomics
Core Facility of Genomics
Manager of Ancient DNA Facilities
Riia 23b-304a
+372 737 5053

PhD position: Elucidating the fine-scale demographic history of the Eastern Baltic by incorporating haplotype-based analyses and modelling

Lab
Author: Genoomika instituut

Title: Elucidating the fine-scale demographic history of the Eastern Baltic by incorporating haplotype-based analyses and modelling

About the project:

This project focuses on advancing our understanding of the genetic history of the Eastern Baltic through the analysis of ancient DNA (aDNA) and integrating cutting-edge bioinformatic methods. aDNA offers rich insights into past human migrations, adaptation, and social structures, but it poses challenges due to DNA degradation and contamination. Traditional aDNA studies primarily rely on allele frequency differences, but recent developments in imputation methods and haplotype-based analyses provide new opportunities for more precise genetic reconstructions of past populations.

The project's aim is to enhance the understanding of the genetic history of the Eastern Baltic using both traditional allele frequency analyses and more sophisticated haplotype-based approaches. The first objective involves processing genomic data from ancient Eastern Baltic individuals and analysing it using allele frequency methods. This will provide a broad overview of genetic affinities and population history. The second objective focuses on haplotype-based analyses, which will allow for finer insights into admixture processes and kinship practices in the region by imputing genotypes with an enriched reference panel.

Lastly, the project seeks to explore the relationship between human populations and their environment by gathering spatiotemporal data on material culture, climate, and vegetation. Using this data, the project will model how changes in genetic ancestry intersect with environmental and cultural shifts over time. Overall, the project aims to contribute to a deeper, more detailed understanding of the genetic history of the Eastern Baltic and its broader implications for human population dynamics and past societies.

Supervisors: Dr Lehti Saag, Prof Kristiina Tambets, Dr Alena Kushniarevich

Who we are:

We are an international and highly motivated team fascinated by demographic history. We use information encoded in the genomes of ancient and modern humans, and utilise population genomic methods to reconstruct past demographic events and their consequences on present-day genetic and cultural diversity and human health.

More information about our group and research can be found here: https://genomics.ut.ee/en/content/estonian-biocentre

What we expect from the applicant:

  • Master’s degree in biology, gene technology, genetics, archaeogenetics, archaeology or another related specialisation.
  • Deep interest in the human past and in studying it via genetics.
  • English: written and spoken level B2 and higher.
  • Laboratory and/or bioinformatics experience is beneficial but not mandatory.

What we offer:

  • To be part of our international and dynamic team of researchers and students with great perspective for personal and professional growth.
  • An opportunity to develop skills in ancient DNA laboratory processing in the University of Tartu Institute of Genomics (UT IG) Ancient DNA Facility.
  • A possibility to learn new skills in the analysis and interpretation of large genomic data in the University of Tartu High Performance Computing Center (UT HPC).
  • A friendly, supportive and inspiring working environment.

What is needed to apply:

  • Motivation letter (see guidelines under the application link below).
  • Curriculum vitae (see relevant form under the application link below)
  • Official copies of both bachelor’s and master’s diplomas and diploma supplements (transcripts) in the original language.
  • Official translations of the diplomas and diploma supplements into English (if not present in the originals).
  • Proof of English language proficiency at a satisfactory level (B2).
  • Copy of the passport page stating the applicant’s personal particulars.

Application period: 1st–15th May 2025

Start date of studies: 1st September 2025

Apply here!

Get familiar:

Contact: Do not hesitate to contact the main supervisor Lehti Saag ([email protected]) with any enquiries regarding the project or the group, and Merilin Raud ([email protected]) with general enquiries about PhD studies in UT IG.