A 3-year NERC-funded postdoc position in Genomics and Metagenomics of Population Declines We are looking for an eager, inquisitive scientist to work on the interactions of host and microbiome during population declines, by analysing temporal host genomic and metagenomic data from museum specimens of several mammalian species. One of the greatest hallmarks of recent human-driven effects on the environment is biodiversity loss, including rapid population declines and associated loss of genetic diversity. Host-associated microbiomes are central to host survival and are themselves impacted by host genetics. Recognising this intimate connection between the hosts and their microbiomes, we aim to answer a central question: How did human-driven population declines during the last two centuries impact host-associated microbiomes and what consequences does it have for the hosts? We will integrate host genomic data and microbial fossils preserved in the form of the calcified oral biofilm - dental calculus - to study host-microbiome co-evolution during periods of unprecedented population declines. The project is based at the University of Edinburgh, Institute of Ecology and Evolution, in the group of Dr. Katerina Guschanski. Your task Analyse genomic and metagenomic data derived from museum-preserved specimens of several mammalian species and their microbiomes to study their joint effects in declining populations. The paired host-microbiome samples span from before population declines, during the bottleneck, and following (potential) population recovery, depending on the species. You will be using population genomics framework to understand the effects of population size reduction on the host, and multi-omics/hologenomics approaches to study the interactions between hosts and the microbiomes. Even though the main focus is on data analyses, you will have the chance to participate in sampling in various natural history museums and contribute to data generation in the newly established ancient DNA lab. You will be assisted by a postdoc and a research technician, and will be closely interacting with PhD and Honours students. Requirements A PhD degree in population genomics, evolutionary genomics, conservation genomics or a related field. Strong knowledge of population genetics theory and extensive previous experience in population genomics analyses, ideally in wild, non-model organisms. Proven ability to use and develop code for large-scale genomics data analyses and strong skills working with large-scale datasets. You will be collaborating closely with a postdoctoral researcher who is an expert in metagenomics, so we are looking for a curious, highly collaborative, and cross-disciplinary mindset and a broad interest in biodiversity conservation. Experience with wet lab analyses of ancient DNA or molecular lab work would be an asset, as well as experience with analyses of low-coverage population genomics data and multi-omics statistics. What we offer We are a highly international research group working on various questions of evolution, speciation, adaptation, and conservation genomics, with particular focus on how human actions affect the environment. As part of the Institute of Ecology and Evolution, the post is located in a world-class, dynamic scientific environment with over 40 research groups working on all aspects of evolutionary ecology, population genetics, behaviour and more. It is a highly collaborative and welcoming place, which provides the resources to advance your own career along your desired path through mentorship, professional development opportunities, and opportunities to develop collaborations that extend beyond the core group. Application More information on the post and the link to the application portal is here: https://elxw.fa.em3.oraclecloud.com/hcmUI/CandidateExperience/en/sites/CX_1001/job/11522 Application deadline: November 25th, 2024 Expected interview dates: Mid December Expected starting date: March 1st, 2025 or soon thereafter Contact: Please reach out to Katerina.guschanski@ed.ac.uk for more information and informal inquiries about the post. Katerina Guschanski Senior Lecturer Institute of Ecology and Evolution School of Biological Sciences The University of Edinburgh Ashworth Laboratories Charlotte Auerbach Road Edinburgh, EH9 3FL UK Office: +44 (0)131 650 7489 Email: Katerina.Guschanski@ed.ac.uk Group leader Evolutionary Biology Centre Department of Ecology and Genetics/Animal Ecology Uppsala University Norbyvägen 18D SE-752 36 Uppsala, Sweden Lab page: http://www.ieg.uu.se/animal-ecology/Research+groups/guschanski-lab Office: +46 (0)18 471 2673 Email: katerina.guschanski@ebc.uu.se The University of Edinburgh is a charitable body, registered in Scotland, with registration number SC005336. Is e buidheann carthannais a th' ann an Oilthigh Dhùn Èideann, clàraichte an Alba, àireamh clàraidh SC005336. Katerina Guschanski (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to golding@mcmaster.ca)