Exploring the Impact of Climate Change on Loggerhead Turtles – an Epigenetic Perspective
Project Description:
Our project will kick off by harnessing existing extensive datasets of whole-genome DNA methylation from nesting female loggerhead turtles and their offspring. Our research objectives encompass:
Epigenetic Basis of Sex Determination: Uncovering the epigenetic factors influencing sex determination in loggerhead turtles and their heritability.
Assessing Adaptive Potential: Investigating how epigenetics, genetics, and population structure interact to define the adaptive potential of this population.
As the project progresses, the successful candidate will have the opportunity to shape their own research. While the primary focus of this work relates to bioinformatics, the successful candidate will be encouraged to actively engage in fieldwork. You will have access to field infrastructure (e.g. hatcheries), allowing you to combine experimental approaches with cutting-edge genomic tools.
About Us:
As climate change accelerates, it is imperative to assess how various species respond to these environmental shifts. In this exciting research project, we focus on the loggerhead turtles nesting in the Cabo Verde archipelago. We aim to investigate the critical role of epigenetics, particularly DNA methylation, in understanding the adaptive potential of this population.
What We Offer:
Our group for Evolutionary and Conservation Genetics is based on the Mile End Campus of Queen Mary University of London. We focus on understanding the maintenance of species’ adaptive potential using laboratory model systems such as the stickleback fish and endangered species such as the loggerhead turtles. For more info visit: https://www.qmul.ac.uk/eizaguirrelab/turtle-project/
The group is part of the School for Biological and Behavioural Sciences. This diverse environment favours interdisciplinary approach to evolutionary problems.
Inclusivity and Diversity:
We are committed to fostering an inclusive working environment that celebrates diversity. We strongly encourage individuals from underrepresented minority groups to apply. We believe that a diverse and inclusive research team enhances creativity, innovation, and the quality of our scientific contributions.
Qualifications:
We are seeking a highly motivated and dedicated individual with a passion for both evolutionary biology, and/or conservation. The ideal candidate should have:
A strong bioinformatic background.
A good understanding of genetics, epigenetics, or related fields.
An enthusiasm for contributing to field research.
The ability to work collaboratively in a dynamic research environment.
Application Details:
To apply, students should have received a MSc in a relevant field (i.e. evolutionary biology, bioinformatics). We will also consider students who are about to finish their MSc. Please submit your CV, a cover letter outlining your research interests, and contact information for at least two academic or professional references in a single document here.
Application Deadline: November 17th, 2023.