Two postdoctoral positions in the Wellcome Sanger Institute, UK, on the analysis of the genomes of eukaryotic and prokaryotic cobionts - symbionts, pathogens and microbiomes - of a wide range of eukaryotic hosts. Closing Date: 26th January 2025 We have an exciting opportunity for two Postdoctoral Fellows to work in the general area of symbiosis genomics. Symbiosis covers a spectrum of relationships, from temporary to lifelong, and from mutually beneficial - such as between coral and algae - to exploitative - between parasite and host. These relationships are hugely important in biology and evolution and have arisen independently many times. Yet little is known about the underlying genetics of these complex relationships between species, how symbiotic partners adapt to one another over time, how resilient these partnerships are, how they respond to disruption and how the interactions might be supported and engineered to build better agriculture and promote conservation. What do the genomes of collaborating or antagonistic partners reveal of their evolving relationships? Are the dynamics of genomic change predictable, and can these dynamics be used to in turn predict the likely mode of association between species where the relationship is unclear? One position will focus on analysing eukaryotic cobionts serendipitously identified in Darwin Tree of Life genomic data, as well as symbiotic systems explicitly sequenced, for example as part of the Aquatic Symbiosis Genomics project. The work will address the origins and impacts of symbiosis on genome structure, and better resolution of pattern and process in co-evolution between the varied partners found in association. The scope of the work will include the evolution of collaboration between species in symbiotic (mutualist and parasitic) and other associations. The second position is a collaboration between the Tree of Life (ToL) and the Parasites and Microbes (PaM) programmes at Sanger to collate, annotate and explore the biology of the bacterial and archaeal cobionts discovered during eukaryotic host genome sequencing. You will identify cobionts in genome sequence datasets as they are generated and build a catalogue of host-microbe associations. You will explore the evolutionary and systems biology of host-microbiome interactions, including identification of phylogenetic associations between hosts and microbes, exploration of virulence and other phenotypes in pathogens, exploration of phage metagenomes, definition and functional analysis of horizontal DNA transfers into host genomes, and other topics. Where required, additional data will be commissioned to better evidence particular aspects of host and microbe. The specific projects undertaken will be co-created by the bioinformaticians in consultation with the principal investigators, with an emphasis on large-scale analysis across diversity. The positions are associated with the Leverhulme Research Centre for the Holobiont, where a diverse team of biologists from many disciplines are examining inter-species associations from evolutionary, metabolic/physiological and ecological standpoints. Do contact Mark Blaxter mb35@sanger.ac.uk to discuss the positions and the wider environment at the Sanger Institute. 3 years fixed term contracts, salary range 38,000 - 49,156 Closing Date: 26th January 2025 Recruitment Process: Zoom interviews w/c 3rd Feb, Face to face Interviews w/c 10th Feb Direct links to job specifications and application forms: Eukaryotic symbionts https://sanger.wd103.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/WellcomeSangerInstitute/details/Postdoctoral-Fellow_JR102432 Microbiome analysis across Tree of Life https://sanger.wd103.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/WellcomeSangerInstitute/details/Postdoctoral-Fellow--Microbiomes-of-Tree-of-Life-_JR102528 Hybrid Working at Sanger: We recognise that there are many benefits to Hybrid Working; including an improved work-life balance, with more focused time, as well as the ability to organise working time so that collaborative opportunities and team discussions are facilitated on campus. The hybrid working arrangement will vary for different roles and teams. The nature of your role and the type of work you do will determine if a hybrid working arrangement is possible. Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: We aim to attract, recruit, retain and develop talent from the widest possible talent pool, thereby gaining insight and access to different markets to generate a greater impact on the world. We have a supportive culture with the following staff networks, LGBTQ+, Parents and Carers, Disability and Race Equity to bring people together to share experiences, offer specific support and development opportunities and raise awareness. The networks are also a place for allies to provide support to others. We want our people to be whoever they want to be because we believe people who bring their best selves to work, do their best work. That's why we're committed to creating a truly inclusive culture at Sanger Institute. We will consider all individuals without discrimination and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, where everyone can thrive. Our Benefits: We are proud to deliver an awarding campus-wide employee wellbeing strategy and programme. The importance of good health and adopting a healthier lifestyle and the commitment to reduce work-related stress is strongly acknowledged and recognised at Sanger Institute. The Wellcome Sanger Institute is operated by Genome Research Limited, a charity registered in England with number 1021457 and a company registered in England with number 2742969, whose registered office is Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, CB10 1SA. Mark Blaxter (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to golding@mcmaster.ca)