PhD Studentship: Genomics of mimicry in Neotropical catfishes

Primary Supervisor - Dr Martin Taylor

Scientific Background 

Mimicry—where species share similar colour patterns to signal unpalatability—is one of the most striking examples of natural selection in action. While famous cases exist in Heliconius butterflies and poison arrow frogs, South American catfishes (Corydoras and related genera) offer a lesser-known yet equally fascinating system. In rivers and streams across the continent, multiple differently coloured catfish communities coexist, forming diverse mimicry “rings.” 

This project will use whole-genome resequencing to tackle three key questions: 

1. Which regions of the genome show divergent selection across mimicry rings with different colour patterns? 
2. Are there signatures of selective sweeps in species within individual mimicry rings that share colour patterns? 
3. Do the evolutionary rates of pigmentation associated genes differ between mimetic and non-mimetic species? 

Ultimately, this research will shed light on a fundamental question in evolutionary biology: Do independent mimicry rings rely on the same genes to produce colour patterns, or are there different solutions each time mimicry evolves? 

Research Methodology 

You will work with existing high-quality, chromosome-level genome sequences and perform additional genome resequencing of species from different mimicry rings. The project combines molecular biology with cutting-edge bioinformatics, including detection of positive selection and selective sweeps, to uncover the genetic basis of colour pattern mimicry. Most samples are available in the host laboratory, with potential opportunities for fieldwork in South America. 

Training and Skills Development 

This PhD will provide comprehensive training in: 

• Molecular techniques: DNA extraction, PCR, and next-generation sequencing library preparation. 
• Bioinformatics: Comparative genome analysis, detection of selection, and functional genomics, phylogenetics. 
• Computational skills: UNIX/Linux, HPC computing, and programming in R and Python. 

You will gain hands-on experience in both laboratory and computational approaches, equipping you with a strong skill set for a career in evolutionary genetics, genomics, or bioinformatics. 

Person Specification 

This project is ideal for a curious and motivated individual to explore the genetics behind one of nature’s most intriguing phenomena. 

We are looking for candidates with: 

• A degree in biological sciences, genetics, or related. 
• A strong interest in evolutionary biology. 
• An aptitude for bioinformatics; experience with R or another scripting language is advantageous. 

Entry Requirements

At least UK equivalence Bachelors (Honours) 2:1. English Language requirement (Faculty of Science equivalent: IELTS 6.5 overall, 6 in each category). 

Acceptable first degree: Biological Sciences, Genetics, Zoology 

Mode of Study

Full-time

Start Date

1 October 2026

Funding Information

ARIES studentships are subject to UKRI terms and conditions. Successful candidates who meet UKRI’s eligibility criteria will be awarded a fully-funded studentship, which covers fees, maintenance stipend (£20,780 p.a. for 2025/26) and a research training and support grant (RTSG). A limited number of studentships are available for international applicants, with the difference between 'home' and 'international' fees being waived by the registering university. Please note, however, that ARIES funding does not cover additional costs associated with relocation to, and living in, the UK, such as visa costs or the health surcharge.  

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