Graduate Position in Conservation and Evolutionary Genomics University of Louisiana at Lafayette The Cassin Sackett Lab at the University of Louisiana is looking for a highly motivated graduate student to study population and conservation genomics in prairie dogs. We use ancient DNA, field sampling, next-generation sequencing and bioinformatic approaches to answer fundamental questions in evolutionary biology, especially those with practical conservation applications. Some major questions being asked in the lab are: · How do humans influence the evolution of wildlife? We study the ways in which climate change, habitat alteration, and introduced diseases impact the distribution of genetic variation, rates of gene flow, and the probability of adaptation. · What is the genomic basis of rapid adaptation to novel pathogens? We examine the demographic and environmental constraints to adaptation and whether genomic architecture of rapid adaptation differs from that of more gradual adaptation (e.g., to climate). Please visit the lab website for more details on current projects: www.cassinsackett.com The student will work in a collaborative environment on aspects of an NSF-funded project that uses genomic approaches to investigate the genomic basis of resistance to *Yersinia pestis*, the bacterial pathogen causing plague, and the constraints on adaptation to this pathogen. Projects could include genomics of experimentally infected prairie dogs, landscape genetics, genomic basis of adaptation, molecular evolution, or other relevant topics. The position is supported minimally by a teaching assistantship, but the University of Louisiana also offers multiple fellowships for PhD students, including SREB doctoral fellowships ( https://www.sreb.org/doctoral-scholars-program) for students from historically marginalized groups. The work requires collaboration with individuals from Hispanic- and tribal-serving institutions; thus, cultural sensitivity is a requirement for this position. The position will be based in UL's Department of Biology (https://biology.louisiana.edu/). Interested applicants should contact cassin.sackett@gmail.com for inquiries. The desired start date is Summer or Fall 2025. Qualifications: Applicants should have a bachelor's degree in biology, computer science, or a related field. We are looking for a student who is motivated, hard-working, and passionate about topics in evolutionary biology. The student should have or be willing to develop excellent organizational and communication skills, computing skills, and the desire/willingness to engage in outreach. The Cassin Sackett lab is committed to inclusivity in STEM, and we especially encourage applications from women, minoritized students, veterans and members of other groups underrepresented in STEM. How to apply: Interested candidates should reach out to me before applying ( Loren.Sackett@gmail.com). Applications are due by February 1 (but earlier applications are encouraged) following the guidelines at https://gradschool.louisiana.edu/admissions. -- Loren Cassin Sackett, Ph.D. Fulbright Alum, Colombia Research Affiliate, Smithsonian Institution South Louisiana Mid Winter Fair/BORSF Professorship in Environmental Science Assistant Professor, Biology University of Louisiana Lafayette, LA 70504 www.cassinsackett.com Latest paper: https://academic.oup.com/jhered/advance-article/doi/10.1093/jhered/esad017/7069306 Loren Cassin Sackett (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to golding@mcmaster.ca)