Does sociality drive cognitive evolution? Mechanisms and functions of cognitive control within and across social systems in cichlid fishes

Living in a group requires a set of advanced cognitive skills, such as recognizing individuals, understanding social rank and modulating behaviour to the social context. For this reason, it has been proposed that sociality has driven the evolution of cognition in many taxa, including humans (the social brain hypothesis). We will investigate the role of sociality on the evolution of cognitive abilities using Lamprologine cichlid fishes. Our study system consists of several closely related cichlid species that have evolved highly distinct social systems in independent evolutionary events. The Ph.D. candidate will compare these species in a battery of cognitive tasks and use phylogenetically controlled methods to assess associations between social system and interspecific variation in cognition. In addition, the molecular mechanisms underpinning observed differences will be investigated by quantifying neural activation via immediate early gene expression and using immunohistochemistry and qPCR. The project will be primarily based at Liverpool John Moores University in the UK but may require research periods at the University of Ferrara, Italy.

We are looking for students with excellent CVs (first class degree and/or distinction at Masters level, plus relevant experience and/or publication success in peer reviewed journals) to apply for a competitive 3 year doctoral scholarship in the school of Biological and Environmental Sciences at Liverpool John Moores University (https://www.ljmu.ac.uk/research/phd-scholarships).

Preferred candidate characteristics include a keen interest in animal behaviour and evolution; experience studying behaviour in the laboratory; strong writing and analytical skills; knowledge of experimental design and statistical analysis. Previous experience with one or more of the following: behavioural testing, immunohistochemistry, RNA extraction, qPCR would be highly valuable. Previous experience working with fish is desirable but not essential. UK/EU nationals only.

Please apply by email to [Email Address Removed] and [Email Address Removed] with a CV, a brief statement outlining your interest, and the names and contact information for two references. Deadline for application: August 31 2020. Please feel free to email us with any questions.