PhD student in evolutionary genetics
The project:
Germline mutations are the source of genetic variation and the mechanism that fuels evolutionary change. They also influence a range of evolutionary phenomena, including mutation load, extinction rates, inbreeding depression and the maintenance of outcrossing. Additionally, germline mutations are a major cause of disease. Understanding the factors that shape the germline mutation rate has therefore been a long-standing goal in evolutionary biology, but our appreciation of these factors remains limited.
Mutations also occur in somatic cells. While these are not inherited across generations, they are the main cause of cancer and have been suggested to contribute to general ageing. The factors that govern the somatic mutation rate are even less understood than those that determine the germline mutation rate, and virtually nothing is known about a putative connection between these mutation rates.
Using several Drosophila melanogaster model systems, in combination with quantitative genetics, experimental evolution and direct manipulation of resource allocation patterns, this project aims to explore somatic and germline mutation rates from a life-history perspective, to determine whether they are integrated components of organisms' general life-history decisions. The work involves accumulation of mutations in different fly lines, extracting DNA and building libraries for sequencing, as well as bioinformatics analyses of sequence data.
Requirements:
Competitive candidates should have a strong interest in evolutionary genetics, excellent analytical skills, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team. Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English are essential. Candidates are further expected to have experience in processing and analyzing high-throughput genomic sequencing data and in statistical analysis. Previous experience with Drosophila melanogaster or other insect systems, DNA extraction, and library preparation is beneficial but not required.
We offer:
The position is fully funded for 4 years and may be extended for up to 1 year, as students often teach 20% of their time. You can read more about employment benefits at Linköping University at:
https://liu.se/en/work-at-liu/employee-benefits
Your workplace:
The PhD position is placed in the research group led by Professor Urban Friberg at Linköping University. Research in the group focuses broadly on the evolutionary genetics of aging and sex differences. You can read more about research in our group here:
https://liu.se/en/research/friberg-lab
The PhD project is a collaboration with Associate professor Martin Johnsson at SLU Uppsala and Professor Matthew Webster at BMC Uppsala.
Linköping University is a modern university, which attracts some 27,000 students from all over the world, offering an international and stimulating research environment as well as providing a multitude of opportunities for collaboration and social interactions. Linköping is situated in central Sweden, conveniently located only a couple of hours by train/car from Stockholm and has beautiful and easily accessible surroundings.
How to apply:
All applications should be submitted through the Linköping University application system.
Read more about the position and how to apply here:
https://liu.se/en/work-at-liu/vacancies/26479
Please submit your application by May 5, 2025.
Contact details:
For informal enquiries about the position, please contact Professor Urban Friberg:
📧 urban.friberg@liu.se
