PhD: The genomics of repeated adaptation Yeaman Lab Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary I am seeking to recruit a PhD student with strong skills in bioinformatics and data analysis to work on one of two projects: 1. The genetic basis of repeated adaptation. Previous work in our lab has established a dataset with thousands of individuals with genome-scale data from 25 plant species. We have identified hundreds of genes driving repeated local and global adaptation in multiple species, with patterns of pleiotropy showing surprising consistency with predictions of theoretical models (doi.org/10.1038/s41559-024-02514-5). We are now aiming to cast the net more broadly, working with many collaborators to increase the size of our plant dataset and extend our study of repeated adaptation to in insects, molluscs, fish, mammals, and as many other clades as possible. This project would involve focused study on these datasets, and could include a wide range of methods and study questions. This is a remarkably rich area of research for anyone with a taste for big questions and a love of huge data. 2. The genomics of local adaptation in a spruce hybrid zone. White and Engelmann spruce form a narrow hybrid zone in Alberta's Rocky Mountains (Banff, Kananaskis). Preliminary sequencing of samples along elevational transects shows strong patterns of differentiation and local adaptation, with remarkable similarity to patterns found across broader latitudinal clines in central British Columbia. Much remains to be discovered, including broadening the scale of sampling & sequencing, studying phenological barriers to gene flow, GWAS of phenotypic variation in common gardens, and conducting experiments to assess the genomic basis of survival beyond the species alpine range limit. Depending on a candidate's experience and interest, this project can include field work or be focused only on bioinformatics/genomic analysis. In both projects, the development of new statistical methods would be particularly interesting, as would theoretical work exploring evolutionary dynamics. This position will have a tax-free stipend of at least $35k/year. TO APPLY: Please send a CV and a short description of your interest in the position and any relevant research experience to samuel.yeaman@ucalgary.ca, along with the names and emails of three people I could contact for reference letters. I will begin reviewing applications on October 10th 2024, but please contact me to check in if you need to make a quick decision. https://yeamanlab.weebly.com/uploads/5/7/9/5/57959825/phd_position_2024.pdf Samuel Yeaman (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to golding@mcmaster.ca)