MRes Opportunity Conservation genetics of the UK Harvest Mouse Supervisors:Dr. Ylenia Chiari, University of Nottingham, School of Life Sciences Collaborator:Prof. Matyas Liptovszky, University of Nottingham, School of Veterinary Medicine and Science Start date:February 2026 We are offering an MRes research opportunity to join a collaborative project investigating the genetic health of the UK's native harvest mouse (Micromys minutus), a species of high conservation concern. This work is part of a broader initiative aimed at informing the conservation and management of both wild and captive populations. In this project, the MRes student will: - Work with various sample types (hair, faeces, tissue from museum specimens, blood) preserved under different conditions to identify the best sample type and preservation method for DNA analyses, and provide guidelines for handling different tissue types. - Analyse mitochondrial DNA (and if there is time microsatellite data too) from wild and captive populations across the UK. The student will benefit from working within an interdisciplinary team that includes evolutionary biologists, zoo veterinarians, and conservation professionals. Supervision will be provided in conservation genetics and wildlife health, with opportunities to contribute to a scientific publication. We are seeking a highly motivated student with a BSc (2:1 or above) in biology, zoology, genetics, or a related discipline, a strong interest in conservation and molecular biology, and a willingness to work both independently and as part of a team. Some lab experience is desirable, but full training will be provided. The position is open to National and International students. However, tuition fees are different for home or international students. The Chiari Lab (www.yleniachiari.it) works on causes and consequences of morphological and physiological variation in reptiles and on conservation biology.The Lab is committed to promoting and supporting diversity and a multicultural environment and we encourage underrepresented students to apply. This is a self-funded MRes. Prospective students should send a brief description of their research interests and past experience (max 500 words), along with their CV (including the names of two references), to Dr. Ylenia Chiari at Ylenia.Chiari@nottingham.ac.uk. Ylenia Chiari, PhD Associate Professor My name is pronounced EE-len-ee-ah Kee-AH-ree (hear name) EYlenia.Chiari@nottingham.ac.uk University of Nottingham, School of Life Sciences Life Sciences Building University Park Nottingham UK www.yleniachiari.it ChiariLab - YouTube Ylenia Chiari (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to golding@mcmaster.ca)