Joachim Hermisson is a Professor of Mathematics and Biology at the University of Vienna, where he leads the Mathematics and Biosciences Group (MaBS). He is a principal investigator in the SFB Polygenic Adaptation and the founder of the evolVienna network, fostering collaboration in evolutionary biology across Vienna. His academic journey spans physics, philosophy, and evolutionary theory, reflecting a deeply interdisciplinary approach. Education: PhD in Theoretical Physics, University of Tübingen (1999); Habilitation in Evolutionary Biology, LMU Munich (2006) Appointments: Professor at University of Vienna (since 2012); Vienna Science Chair (2007–2012); Emmy Noether Group Leader, LMU Munich (2002–2007) Joachim Hermisson’s research lies at the intersection of theoretical population genetics and mathematical biology. He develops models to understand adaptation, speciation, and the role of polygenic traits under natural selection. His work integrates molecular and phenotypic approaches, focusing on coalescent theory, epistasis, robustness, and evolvability. He is particularly interested in how complex genetic architectures evolve and influence evolutionary trajectories. His recent publications reflect a strong emphasis on polygenic adaptation beyond classical selective sweeps, hybridization, introgression, and the genomic signatures of selection. The articles span mathematical modeling, stochastic processes, and genomic data analysis, demonstrating a consistent focus on theoretical innovation with empirical relevance. Marcus W. Feldman Prize in Theoretical Population Biology (2018) WWTF Vienna Science Chair (2006) Emmy Noether Fellowships (DFG, 2000–2007) Graduate Program Award, VolkswagenStiftung (2006) Doctoral Prize, University of Tübingen (1999) Hermisson has advised numerous PhD and Master’s students, many of whom have gone on to independent research careers at institutions such as MPI Cologne, University of Edinburgh, and University of Vienna. He has secured major grants from FWF, DFG, EU Marie Curie, and ERC programs. He serves as Associate Editor for Genetics and Evolution , and has been a referee for leading journals and funding agencies including Nature, Science, PNAS, and the ERC. He leads the MaBS group, a vibrant research team focused on mathematical modeling in evolutionary biology. The group includes postdocs, PhD students, and collaborators working on polygenic adaptation, speciation, and eco-evolutionary dynamics. The lab participates in the SFB Polygenic Adaptation and the Vienna Graduate School for Population Genetics, contributing to a strong training environment for early-career scientists.












