Evolutionary genomics of social insects

Understanding how societies evolve is a fundamental question for which ants, wasps, bees and termites provide ideal study systems. Extensive studies have indeed focused on the morphologies, ecological and evolutionary contexts involved in social evolution. But it was until recently impossible to identify the molecular-genetic changes associated with social evolution. Thanks to a 10,000-fold drop in DNA sequencing costs over the past five years such research has become possible. We are fully taking advantage of the new technologies. For example, we sequenced the genome of the invasive red fire ant Solenopsis invicta and identified aspects that are likely linked to the complex social behavior of this species (PNAS 2011). And more recently we discovered that a pair of social chromosomes similar to sex chromosomes regulates social structure in this species (Nature 2013).

The PhD project will combine sequencing, genomics and bioinformatics approaches with fieldwork and laboratory experiments to examine the interplay between social evolution and genome evolution. We expect approximately 80% of the research to be computer-based. We are thus seeking highly motivated candidates with a strong interest in evolutionary genetics, experience in molecular evolution, biostatistics, bioinformatics, genomics, social evolution or behavioral ecology and a willingness to develop expertise in all areas that will be required for the project. The successful candidate will need to work independently, as well as part of a team.

You will receive training in areas including bioinformatics and biostatistics (analyzing and visualizing large volumes of genomics data), experimental design, molecular biology, project management and science communication (conferences, journals).

Location
Our lab is one of several evolutionary genetics groups in the Organismal Biology division (26 labs) of Queen Mary’s School of Biology and Chemistry, with strong ties to additional groups within Queen Mary, and with other UK and international institutions. Queen Mary is a Russell Group University, a college of the University of London and located in London’s vibrant East End (15 minutes bicycle ride to Tower Bridge; 10 minutes walking to Victoria Park).

Applications are invited from candidates with a strong degree in an area relevant to the project (e.g. Biology, Genetics, Bioinformatics, Evolution, Development, Medical Genetics). Fluency in English is required. Candidates with suitable Masters-level training are particularly welcome to apply. Get in touch with Dr. Yannick Wurm (y.wurm @ qmul.ac.uk).

Google, Github and LinkedIn searches may be used to help assess candidates.