PhD Opportunities in Host-Microbiome Interactions

Caesar Lab
School of Biological Sciences
The University of Oklahoma
Norman, Oklahoma, USA

The Caesar Lab investigates how host-associated microbiomes assemble, function, and evolve. Using eusocial bees as a model system, we develop an eco-evolutionary framework to understand the processes shaping host-microbe interactions. We are particularly interested in how host trait evolution, microbial interactions, and host association shape microbiome dynamics and the evolution of microbial symbionts. To investigate these processes, we combine fieldwork, multi-omics, bioinformatics, and microbial assays conducted both in vitro and in vivo.

We are particularly interested in recruiting students excited about:

1. Computational and quantitative approaches:

• Microbiome data analysis
• Bioinformatics and comparative genomics
• Statistics and ecological modeling
• Phylogenomics
• Programming (R, Bash, Python)

2. Experimental approaches:

• Microbiology and microbial ecology
• Molecular biology
• Culturing and characterization of microbial isolates
• Experimental design and host-microbe-microbe interaction assays

Prior experience is not required; curiosity, quantitative thinking, and enthusiasm for learning are highly valued!

Lab highlights:

• Access to OU’s OSCER high-performance computing resources
• International fieldwork opportunities
• Microbial culture collection from social bees

Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Dr. Lilian Caesar (caesarl@ou.edu) before applying to discuss research interests and potential projects. Please include a brief description of your research interests, your CV, and contact information for references.

PhD position start date: Fall 2027. 

Application deadline: December 1, 2026.

For more information:
https://www.ou.edu/cas/biological-sciences
https://liliancaesar.com

Note from Dr. Lilian Caesar: I will also soon advertise a full-time Lab Manager/Research Associate position with an immediate start date (as soon as possible) for someone interested in helping establish the lab while contributing to research. If you are interested in this position, please feel free to reach out.