Post-Doctoral Research Associate position in Population Genomics

Salary (£) 30424 - 32267 per annum

Our NERC-funded project involves the population genomic analysis of two congeneric deep sea fish species in the genus Coryphaenoides, and the phylogenetic assessment of 50-60 species within the genus.  An expected ~5000 SNPs will be developed by RADtag sequencing of approximately 400 samples for analysis at the population level for the two focal species, one found in deep demersal habitat, and the other in the abyss.  Putative functional loci will be identified to investigate the role of adaptation to depth and associated habitat characteristics both within and among species within the genus.  Whole genome sequence data will be generated for reference and further bioinformatics investigation, and the available data used to identify population structure for both neutral and putative functional loci.  The PDRA will undertake these bioinformatics and statistical analyses using appropriate software, and identify candidate loci (both neutral and evidently under natural selection) for analysis by phylogenetic methods. 

The duration of the appointment will be for 3 years.

The PDRA will have experience with next generation sequencing methodologies associated with sample preparation for RADtag sequencing, and with appropriate software including the Geneious DNA sequence analysis package, genomic assembly software (e.g. BWA, Velvet, etc), genome analysis software (e.g. Samtools), script writing (preferably in Perl), and a general understanding of bio-informatics associated with the analysis of second generation DNA sequence data.  The PDRA will also need skills associated with the use of population genetics and phylogenetic software packages when applied to large datasets, and with labwork associated with DNA amplification and Sanger sequencing.

A PhD in a related field is required, and relevant post-doctoral experience and publications highly desirable.

The project is a collaboration between the Molecular Ecology Group in Durham and the Centre for Genomic Research in Liverpool, and work will begin on 29 July 2013.  The Post-doc will be based in Durham (UK).

To apply please send your c.v., a cover letter, and have three letters of reference sent to Prof. A. Rus Hoelzel (a.r.hoelzel@dur.ac.uk) by 13 May 2013.

Closing date:  13 May 2013      Vacancy reference: 2551

Further details of the post are available on our website (http://www.dur.ac.uk/jobs/) by clicking on the Apply button below.