The Tan Lab at LSU is Recruiting a PhD Student in the Ecology and Evolution of Host-Microbiome Symbiosis Application Deadline: January 3 The Tan Lab at Louisiana State University (LSU) is recruiting a fully funded PhD student to begin in Fall 2026. Our research addresses the ecology and evolution of host-microbiome symbiosis, with a focus on uncovering the mechanisms that shape microbiome assembly, community stability, and their impacts for host traits and performance. Based on community ecology, coevolution, and symbiosis theory, this work aims to understand how interactions among diverse microbes ultimately influence the success, stability, and function of their hosts. We use duckweedas a model system for connecting ecological and evolutionary principles to real-world applications. Duckweed's simplicity, tractability, and rapid growth enable mechanistic experiments that bridge molecular, community, and ecosystem scales. Its relevance to bioenergy and bioremediation creates a natural path from fundamental discovery to applied innovation. A central goal of our research is to advance microbiome-based strategies that enhance duckweed productivity and support sustainable environmental solutions. Students in the lab have the flexibility to pursue diverse approaches within this conceptual framework. Projects may incorporate field-based studies of natural microbiome variation,laboratory experiments with synthetic communities,molecular and sequencing-based tools, and/or quantitative and computational analysis. The lab embraces integrative perspectives and supports students in developing creative, rigorous, and independent lines of inquiry. The position is supported through the LSU Biological Sciences Graduate Program. Informal inquiries can be directed to Jiaqi Tan (jtan7@lsu.edu). Prospective students are encouraged to email a CV and a personal/research statement describing relevant research experiences and interests. The official application to the LSU Biological Sciences PhD program is due January 3. Additional information about the lab can be found at: https://www.tanlabecology.com/ Jiaqi Tan (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to golding@mcmaster.ca)