There are two PhD positions to join us at Sheffield University, UK *[1] Detecting rapid evolutionary responses to climate change in UK plants* This PhD project investigates how UK native grasses are adapting to climate change by comparing "resurrected" ancestral populations from seed banks with their modern descendants. Using growth experiments and genome resequencing, the study will test for adaptive traits, identify genetic changes, and trace evolutionary patterns through time and space. Working with Kew Gardens and the Millennium Seed Bank, the student will gain expertise in plant biology, evolutionary genetics, and bioinformatics while addressing urgent questions about biodiversity and climate resilience. Full advert & instructions to apply: https://www.findaphd.com/phds/project/acce-dla-programme-detecting-rapid-evolutionary-responses-to-climate-change-in-uk-plants/?p189805 Application deadline: 7th January 2026 *[2] Natural GM: The Role of Horizontal Gene Transfer in Crop Adaptation and Evolution* This PhD project explores how horizontal gene transfer (HGT) has shaped the genomes of key crops like maize, wheat, and rice by introducing functional genes from other species. Through comparative genomic, epigenetic, and experimental approaches (including CRISPR validation) you will uncover how these foreign genes are integrated, regulated, and contribute to traits such as stress tolerance and yield. The project offers cutting-edge training at the intersection of plant evolution, genomics, and agriculture, addressing fundamental questions about natural genetic exchange and its role in crop improvement. Full advert & instructions to apply: https://www.findaphd.com/phds/project/bbsrc-yorkshire-bioscience-dla-programme-natural-gm-the-role-of-horizontal-gene-transfer-in-crop-adaptation-and-evolution/?p189996 Application deadline: 7th January 2026 Additional information about the research group you will be joining: https://dunning-lab.sites.sheffield.ac.uk/ *Dr Luke T. Dunning* Senior Lecturer Ecology and Evolutionary Biology School of Biosciences University of Sheffield @LukeTDunning https://dunning-lab.sites.sheffield.ac.uk/ Luke Dunning (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to golding@mcmaster.ca)