PhD position at the University of Konstanz, Germany, working on resistance and host range evolution in an alga-virus model system. Fully funded for 3 years; start date between October & December 2024. SUPERVISORS: Dr. Eva Lievens (primary), in the lab of Prof. Lutz Becks (secondary) BACKGROUND: Models of host-parasite coevolution often assume that host-parasite interactions have a simple basis: at every coevolutionary step, resistance mutations in one host gene are countered by resistance-breaking mutations in a corresponding parasite gene. However, empirical data shows that parallel changes in resistance or host range can differ at the mechanistic or genetic levels. How does this affect the trajectory and repeatability of coevolution? Our recent work provides a unique opportunity to investigate this using the alga Chlorella variabilis and its lytic virus PBCV-1. Using highly replicated artificial selection, we generated a panel of algal clones with diverse resistance phenotypes and a panel of virus isolates with diverse resistance-breaking mutations. PROJECT DESCRIPTION: In the DFG-funded project 'Effects of stochastic resistance and resistance-breaking on host-parasite coevolution', you will use infection assays, growth assays, experimental evolution, and genomics (in collaboration) to investigate: - the diversity of algal resistance: which mechanisms & fitness costs underlie the different resistance phenotypes? - the diversity of viral resistance-breaking: which traits & fitness costs are associated with the different resistance-breaking mutation types? - the consequences of this diversity for further (co)evolution: do the initial resistance phenotype or resistance-breaking mutation constrain the (co)evolutionary trajectory? REQUIREMENTS: - MSc in evolutionary biology, ecology, microbiology, or related fields - interest in core concepts in evolutionary biology and ecology - motivation to do lab research - proficiency in spoken and written English - experience with statistics and R is an advantage - experience working with microbes or host-parasite systems is an advantage SALARY: To be determined following the scale "E 13 TV-L" at 65%. Starts at ~1800 euro /month post-tax, depending on experience. CONTEXT: You will work in an engaging and international group that studies eco-evolutionary processes using microbial model systems. For more information, see https://www.limnologie.uni-konstanz.de/en/ag-becks/ and https://ejplievens.weebly.com/ . We are part of the Department of Biology at the University of Konstanz, a German Excellence University located on the beautiful shores of Lake Konstanz and near the Alps. TO APPLY: Send applications to eva.lievens@uni-konstanz.de by August 18th 2024 at 23:59 CEST. Applications should be a single pdf containing 1) a cover letter explaining your research interests and experience, 2) a CV, 3) contact information for two references. We welcome applicants of all ages, genders, ethnicities, disabilities, and sexual orientations. Informal inquiries are welcome; contact eva.lievens@uni-konstanz.de . Eva Lievens (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to golding@mcmaster.ca)