Genetics of adaptation in the Trinidadian Guppy
Application deadline: 30 November 2015
Supervisors: Prof. Jeremy Field and Dr Bonnie Fraser
Project Description
A PhD position is available in evolutionary genetics with Dr. Bonnie Fraser (co-supervised
by Dr. Jeremy Field) at the University of Sussex. The main goal of our research group
(starting early 2016) is to investigate how local adaptation shapes evolution at the genomic
level. The connections between genotype, phenotype, and selection are at the centre of
evolutionary biology. There is, however, still much we don’t know about these relationships,
limiting our understanding of evolutionary processes.
Our research focuses on the Trinidadian guppy (Poecilia reticulata), a fish that has long
served as a model system for evolutionary and ecological research. Guppies in the Northern
Mountain Range of Trinidad offer a natural laboratory for studying evolution in action. Here,
guppies below waterfalls co-exist with many predators, whereas guppies above waterfalls
experience reduced predation. In response to this naturally replicated environmental gradient,
guppies in low predation environments have repeatedly and rapidly evolved to be larger,
more colourful, and to display less anti-predator behaviour.
This project will take advantage of these natural resources and state of the art genomic tools
to explore the genetics of adaptation. Potential topics include quantitative genomics,
population genomics, or comparative genomics. The ideal applicant will have a background
in or desire to learn bioinformatics skills (e.g., knowledge of R, Perl, or Python) and
molecular lab skills. More information can be found on my website
(https://sites.google.com/site/bonniefraserpublish/home) or you can email me at
(bonnie.fraser@tuebingen.mpg.de).
Funding Notes
To be considered complete online application View Website
Apply for PhD in Biology, September 2016 entry. Mention name of supervisor in “suggested
supervisor” section. In funding mention sponsored or seeking funding. In Award details
mention School of Life Sciences funded studentship. Include brief statement of interest (upto
2 pages), CV, two academic references, UG/PG transcripts, IELTS/TOEFL results if residing
in EU. The studentship is for 3.5 years (full fee waiver, stipend Research Council equivalent
rate). Only full time Home or EU students will be accepted.
For further queries contact Bonnie Fraser (bonnie.fraser@tuebingen.mpg.de, Jeremy Field,
J.Field@sussex.ac.uk)
References
Fraser, B. A., et al. "Population genomics of natural and experimental populations of guppies
(Poecilia reticulata)." Molecular Ecology 24.2 (2015): 389-408.
Endler, J. A. "Multiple-trait coevolution and environmental gradients in guppies." Trends in
Ecology & Evolution 10.1 (1995): 22-29.
Ellegren, H. "Genome sequencing and population genomics in non-model organisms."
Trends in Ecology & Evolution 29.1 (2014): 51-63.
Related Subjects
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Evolution
Genetics
Zoology / Animal Science