PhD project on gene expression and evolutionary dynamics in endangered
small-mouthed salamanders

We are seeking a PhD candidate to extend long-term efforts to understand
the ecology, genomics, and conservation status of endangered small-mouthed
salamanders and reliant unisexual salamanders on Pelee Island, Ontario,
Canada. The salamander complex on Pelee Island is currently at risk
because of combined impacts of habitat loss and kleptoparasitism
by unisexual salamanders (see Bare et al. 2023. Oecologia 202:
807-818). Using our extensive dataset of thousands of genotyped
salamanders, combined with ongoing field sampling and habitat suitability
and connectivity analysis, the PhD candidate will explore one or more of
the following: i) tools to increase genome-wide loci representation for
higher resolution population genetics (RAD-seq); ii) amplification of
corticosterone responsive genes as candidate genomic markers to evaluate
transcriptomic stress; iii) genomotype/environment interactions across
isolated populations; and jv) interactions between inbreeding and drift,
elevated unisexual ploidy, and environmental stress. The work may
culminate by modeling salamander population viability under selection
pressures in contemporary landscapes that favour unisexual polyploids
over small-mouthed salamanders. The student's research can be further
tailored according to interests and expertise, e.g., investigating stress
responses via transcriptomics, profiling for novel candidate stress genes,
or relating genetic variance to phenotype.   The funding package
includes a competitive stipend, international tuition fee waiver, as well
as coverage of all professional expenses.  Successful candidates must have
an MSc in Biology, Genetics, or a related field, and demonstrable evidence
of peer-reviewed publication. Candidates should have experience in more
than one of the following areas: population genetics, RADseq analysis,
transcriptomics, evolutionary ecology, population modeling and amphibian
fieldwork. Successful candidates will have a strong work ethic and
interest in working collaboratively in a large and diverse research group.

To apply, please send: i) cover letter highlighting relevant prior
experience and interests corresponding to the above program priorities,
ii) curriculum vitae, iii) unofficial academic transcript, and iv)
contact information for 3 references. The successful candidate(s) will
be co-supervised by Tom Hossie (www.thomashossie.ca) and Dennis Murray
(www.dennismurray.ca) at Trent University and applications should be sent
to thossie@trentu.caand dennismurray@trentu.ca. The graduate positions
will begin in May 2024 or September 2024, and the postings will be closed
as soon as suitable candidates are found.

Dennis Murray

CRC in Integrative Wildlife Conservation, Bioinformatics, and Ecological Modeling
Director, Bioenvironmental Monitoring and Assessment graduate program
Trent University
Peterborough, ON
CANADA

www.dennismurray.ca

dennis murray <dennismurray@trentu.ca>

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