PhD project in conservation genomics

A PhD position is available in the lab of Tobias Uller at Lund
University. The aim of the project is to study causes and consequences of
genomic diversity in sand lizards (Lacerta agilis). For more information
about the research group, see https://feiner-uller-group.se.

THE PROJECT: Intensive forestry, agriculture and urbanization reduce
the habitat for many species. As populations become small and isolated,
genetic diversity is lost and inbreeding and mutation load can make
populations succumb to an 'extinction vortex'. The project aims
to establish the consequences of habitat fragmentation and loss for
the Swedish sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) - an indicator and umbrella
species for open habitats with many other red-listed species. With the
help of genomic analyses, it is possible to reveal historical changes
in population demography, identify features of the landscape that
promotes functional connectivity between locations, and establish to what
extent purging of harmful genetic variants enables small populations to
persist. The findings of the project can be used to identify effective
conservation strategies for the sand lizard.

The project is situated at the interface of evolutionary genomics
and conservation biology. The research is mainly based on genomic
analyses of a large number of individuals from isolated and fragmented
populations. The student will be encouraged to develop the project
in a direction that they prefer, such as genome evolution, population
genomics, or conservation biology. The project includes field work to
collect data, laboratory work, bioinformatics analyses of whole-genome
data, and methods and statistics for spatial analyses.

THE CANDIDATE: Applicants should have an MSc in evolutionary biology,
ecology or a closely related area. They must have demonstrated ability
for proactive and independent work and practical experience in analysis
and interpretation of genomic data. A driver's license is a requirement.

In addition to the mandatory requirements, documented experience in
the following areas will be considered as strong merits: Good knowledge
and experience in data processing and statistical analyses; Practical
experience in molecular laboratory methods; Experience in field work;
Experience in spatial analysis and GIS.

For more information and how to apply, see
https://lu.varbi.com/en/what:job/jobID:721487. The deadline for applying
is May 27 and the expected starting date is September. For informal
enquiries, please contact Tobias Uller (tobias.uller@biol.lu.se).

Tobias Uller
Professor of Evolutionary Biology

Lund University
Department of Biology
www.biology.lu.se/tobias-uller
www.feiner-uller-group.se

Tobias Uller <tobias.uller@biol.lu.se>

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