School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, VIC, Australia,
3010
Adaptation genomics: the genetic architecture of colour polymorphism and speciation
We are seeking a PhD student to work on an ARC-funded project investigating the genetics underpinning discrete colour morphs in a species of lizard.
To understand the speciation process, we need to understand how
selection acts on traits involved in reproductive isolation (e.g.
colour variation), and how this relates to the underlying genetic
architecture. The project will utilise a well-characterised system with
two genetically and phenotypically discrete lineages, the tawny dragon
lizard. The species is polymorphic and lineages differ most notably in
throat coloration (see figure below). The main aims are to determine
the nature of reproductive isolation between lineages, identify genes
associated with colour morphs and investigate whether these gene
regions are also involved in the process of speciation. The PhD project
may involve fieldwork in semi-arid South Australia as well as captive
maintenance of tawny dragons, laboratory work and/or bioinformatics
depending on the student's main interests.
The student will need to obtain an Australian Postgraduate Award (APA;
$25,849 per annum, or an IPRS for international students) through The
University of Melbourne; therefore a first class Honours or Masters
Degree and/or evidence of publishing in international peer-reviewed
scientific journals are essential. Experience in bioinformatics and/or
working with lizards would be a bonus.
Interested applicants please submit: 1) a brief cover letter outlining
your research interests, 2) a comprehensive CV, 3) academic transcript
and 4) contact details of two referees (including a previous research
supervisor).
Closing date for applications is 1^ST October 2015
For further information and to submit an application, please contact:
Dr Devi Stuart-Fox
d.stuart-fox@unimelb.edu.au
website: devistuartfox.com
Dr Claire McLean
mcleanca@unimelb.edu.au
Claire Mclean
