Postdoctoral research position in the role of somatic mutations in ageing A postdoctoral position is available in the research group of Matthew Webster in Uppsala University, Sweden, to investigate the role of somatic mutations in ageing using insect model systems. The position is available for two years with possibility for extension. Mutations in somatic cells may be important drivers of ageing. This predicts a relationship between somatic mutation rates and longevity in multicellular organisms. Social insects represent promising models to investigate this relationship, due to the existence of castes that differ greatly in longevity despite sharing the same genome. Other promising model systems are represented by experimental lines of insects that have evolved large differences in longevity. In this project, we aim to address the role of somatic mutations in ageing by measuring somatic mutation rates in honeybee castes and experimental evolution lines of seed beetles. Quantifying somatic mutations on a genome scale with high fidelity is experimentally challenging and we are using specially-developed methods for library prep for high-throughput sequencing to achieve this. The research involves next-generation sequence library preparation in the lab and bioinformatic/statistical analyses of next-generation sequence data. The project will be conducted in collaboration with Prof. Göran Arnqvist (Evolutionary Biology Centre, Uppsala University) and Dr. Anja Mezger (Head of Applications Development, National Genomics Infrastructure, SciLifeLab, Stockholm). Other research in Matthew Webster's group is focused on evolutionary genomics and population genomics, primarily in bees, addressing questions including the genetic basis of local adaptation and species divergence, and the evolution of mutation and recombination rates. The successful candidate will also have the opportunity to be involved in these projects. We benefit from collaboration with the groups of Profs. Kerstin Lindblad-Toh and Leif Andersson in the same department and with the genome sequencing platform at SciLifeLab. Uppsala University is the oldest in Scandinavia and the city of Uppsala is a vibrant college town with beautiful surroundings conveniently situated 40 minutes by train from Stockholm. Qualifications and formal requirements To be eligible for this position, applicants must hold a Ph.D. degree or equivalent in a relevant field. Candidates must be skilled in sequencing library preparation and bioinformatics and statistics, with experience in analysis of next-gen sequencing data and an interest in evolutionary genetics. Excellent communication skills, a high level of motivation and good spoken and written English is required. The applicant should be capable of working both independently and as part of a team, with problem-solving skills and an openness to learning new methods. Assessment criteria When selecting among eligible applicants, special emphasis will be placed on scientific proficiency. In this recruitment, the university will primarily consider those who, after an overall assessment of documented qualifications, competence and skills, are deemed to have the best qualities to carry out and develop current research tasks and contribute to a positive development of the activities. About the position The position is for two years with the possibility of extension. The position is full-time. Starting date by agreement. Location: Uppsala, Sweden. Information about the position is provided by: Professor Matthew Webster, matthew.webster@imbim.uu.se Informal enquires about the position are welcome To apply, please go to: https://www.uu.se/en/about-uu/join-us/jobs-and-vacancies/job-details?query=873377 Lab website: www.websterlab.net När du har kontakt med oss på Uppsala universitet med e-post så innebär det att vi behandlar dina personuppgifter. För att läsa mer om hur vi gör det kan du läsa här: http://www.uu.se/om-uu/dataskydd-personuppgifter/ E-mailing Uppsala University means that we will process your personal data. For more information on how this is performed, please read here: http://www.uu.se/en/about-uu/data-protection-policy Matthew Webster (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to golding@mcmaster.ca)