PhD Studentship: Venom Evolution and Diversification in Corydoradinae Catfishes

Primary supervisor - Dr Martin Taylor

Project Overview 

Catfishes are the most diverse group of venomous vertebrates (>3,000 species), yet the molecular basis and evolutionary origins of their venoms remain poorly understood. This project will integrate transcriptomics, proteomics, and comparative genomics to decode venom gene evolution in the subfamily Corydoradinae, a hyperdiverse Amazonian clade (>160 species) characterized by extensive Müllerian mimicry and whole genome duplication. 

Objectives 

Identify venom gene repertoires via RNA-Seq and proteomics of dorsal/pectoral spines, axillary glands, and control tissues across phylogenetically diverse Corydoradinae species. 

Test evolutionary mechanisms by quantifying the roles of gene duplication (including whole-genome duplication), positive selection, and tissue-specific expression shifts in toxin diversification. 

Link venom evolution and diversity to macroevolutionary patterns by testing whether venom diversity correlates with speciation rates and the evolution of mimicry across the Corydoradinae radiation. 

Compare the venom gene complements of Corydoradinae to other catfish groups which have independently evolved venom to investigate the possibility of evolutionary convergence. 

Training and Skills Development 

You will gain expertise in: 

Molecular biology: RNA/DNA extraction, library preparation, next-generation sequencing 

Bioinformatics: Comparative transcriptomics, orthology inference, positive selection detection, protein domain analysis, phylogenetic comparative methods 

Computational skills: UNIX/Linux, HPC computing, R, 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. Most samples are available; fieldwork opportunities in South America may arise subject to funding. 

Person Specification 

This project is ideal for a curious and motivated individual to explore the evolution of venom genes in catfishes. 

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

The standard minimum entry requirement is 2:1 in biology, genetics, zoology or similar with an interest in evolutionary biology and bioinformatics.  

Mode of study

Full-time

Start date

1 October 2026

Funding

This PhD project is in a competition for a Faculty of Science funded studentship. Funding is available to UK applicants and comprises ‘home’ tuition fees and an annual stipend for 3 years.

Closing Date

10/12/2025

To apply for this role, please click on the 'Apply' button above. 

Advert information