EASTBIO Colouring the patterns of molecular and phenotypic evolution.

BACKGROUND

A paradox lies at the heart of the rules of life that govern organismal form and function. Organisms are built and maintained by networks of genes that interact, moment-to-moment, with each other and with the internal and external environment. This interactivity means that mutations in DNA sequences typically do not just influence the expression or product of one gene, but rather have cascading effects across gene networks, potentially influencing numerous molecular, cellular, and whole organism phenotypes as a result. From this interactivity we get the familiar patterns of epistasis – the co-dependence of genes in terms of expression and function – and pleiotropy – the multiple functionality of a given gene or regulatory sequence. Both epistasis and pleiotropy are part and parcel of our understanding of the molecular functioning of the cell. However, such interactivity represents a paradox in terms of understanding how such systems evolve in the first place. Theory shows that the more interactive and co-dependent genes and gene networks are, the harder it is for organisms to evolve solutions to new problems, as mutations will seldom have single or limited effects. Clearly organisms have evolved such complex genetic systems though. Putting this paradox another way, whilst epistasis at the molecular level is ubiquitous, statistical epistasis at the phenotypic level is generally limited.

Solutions to this paradox typically call on either the compartmentalisation of gene networks, or a greater reliance on the regulation of gene expression, compared to changes in proteins themselves. But our empirical understanding of resolving this paradox remains limited, especially going from molecules to whole organisms. In this project, we will explore the evolution of colour patterns in insects, using a novel colour mutation in the seed bug Lygaeus simulans. Insect colour is a useful system for understanding how genes shape multiple phenotypes, as colour typically arises from a number of underlying biochemical pathways that have multiple other functions. In L. simulans, the bright red colouration acts as a warning signal to predators of the insect’s distasteful chemical protection. Yet recent genetic and proteomic work from our research groups has shown that the gene(s) controlling colour also influence metabolism, physiology, development, and behaviour. Learning to use a range of molecular and whole-organism techniques, the successful candidate will identify how, when, and where colour genes are deployed and how the bugs resolve conflicting functional constraints amongst the genes that give them their distinctive colours.

HOW TO APPLY

Application instructions can be found on the EASTBIO website- http://www.eastscotbiodtp.ac.uk/how-apply-0

1)     Download and complete the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion survey.

2)     Download and complete the EASTBIO Application Form.

3)     Submit an application to St Andrews University through the Online Application Portal

Your online application must include the following documents:

-         Completed EASTBIO application form

-         2 References (to be completed on the EASTBIO Reference Form, also found on the EASTBIO website)

-         Academic Qualifications

-         English Language Qualification (if applicable)

Unfortunately due to workload constraints, we cannot consider incomplete applications. Please make sure your application is complete by the 16th December 2021.

CONTACT

Queries on the project can be directed to the project supervisor.

Queries on the application process can be directed to Jess Fitzgerald at [Email Address Removed]

Please refer to UKRI website and Annex B of the UKRI Training Grant Terms and Conditions