4-year PhD contract on fish comparative genomics.
Thegenomic basis of replicated water-to-land transitions in amphibiousfish
The Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales
The MNCN belongs to the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC),
the largest and most important research agency in Spain. The MNCN
is a diverse and scientifically stimulating environment and a
reference center for biodiversity. The PhD will be associated with
the Department of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, with
strength in genomics.
The Working Group
We use major evolutionary transitions as study systems to understand
the patterns and processes underlying biodiversity. Specifically,
we are interested in understanding the genomic basis of adaptations
associated with one of the most drastic and physiologically challenging
habitat transitions: from water to land. We have a strong focus on
phylogenomics and comparative genomics and strive to use integrative
approaches. The project will be developed with international and
multidisciplinary collaborators.
The Project
Blennies are an extraordinary family of fish which have made multiple
independent conquests of the terrestrial environment. This project
aims to understand the evolutionary innovations underlying the
origin of amphibious and terrestrial lifestyles. The core work uses
comparative genomics to identify genome- and transcriptome-level
innovations. We will also study the microbiome, morphology, and
explore evo-devo approaches. The PhD has a strong bioinformatic
focus, but will also include field and molecular lab work.
What do we offer?
· 4-year fully-funded PhD contract (project PID2023-152168NB-I00
by the Spanish Ministry).
· Well-structured PhD study plan, including hands-on training and
specialized courses, international conferences and research stays.
· Gross salary of ca. 19.000 € (1st year) and ca. 23.500 € (years
2-4).
· We are committed to promoting your career development and maintaining
an inclusive and friendly working atmosphere.
· Working language will be English and/or Spanish.
Eligibility
· MSc. in Biology, Bioinformatics, or a related field.
· Interest in Bioinformatics. Previous knowledge is desirable but
not required.
· Curiosity, self-motivation, & organizational skills are a must.
· Working language will be English and/or Spanish.
Application Procedure
· Tentative deadline: September 29th.
· Review of applications will start immediately and interviews will
be held in October.
· Starting date early (January-March) 2025.
· Submit a single pdf to Iker Irisarri (irisarri.iker@gmail.com)
with a motivation letter describing your interests, a short description
of past and present work, CV, and contact information for two
referees.
· Informal emails for further information are welcome.
We are committed to promoting equity. Persons from groups that have
been historically excluded from academia are strongly encouraged
to apply.