Evolution Education Trust PhD project: In silico modelling of pigment pattern formation in the diverse teleost genus, Danio

The University of Bath is inviting applications for this PhD opportunity based at the Milner Centre for Evolution, a unique, cross-faculty research centre bridging biology, health and education. The Centre is dedicated to a broad range of fundamental research questions relating to evolutionary biology; from in deep time to the micro-evolutionary dynamics of a disease outbreak. We have a strong focus on public engagement and outreach. We are located in a dedicated multi-million-pound building that opened on the University campus in September 2018.

Intended Supervisory Team:

Lead Supervisor:

• Prof Robert Kelsh, Department of Biology & Biochemistry

Co-Supervisors:

• Dr Kit Yates, Department of Mathematical Sciences
• Prof Matthew Wills, Department of Biology & Biochemistry, Milner Centre for Evolution
• Dr Nicholas Priest, Department of Biology & Biochemistry, Milner Centre for Evolution

Project Overview:

Evolution is popularly believed to be a gradual process typified by slow morphological change. In fact the rate of change is highly variable, and can sometimes be very fast indeed. Pigment patterns are an excellent example of a rapidly evolving feature: they are biologically vital, yet can differ even amongst sister species. In this project, you will develop a biologically-realistic in silico model of pigment pattern formation in zebrafish Danio rerio: a model that already successfully simulates wild-type and mutant pigment patterns^1. Other Danio species show diverse pigment patterns, which we hypothesise derive from evolutionary modification of a conserved pigment pattern formation process. We will explore the outputs of our in silico model during systematic modification of the model (mimicking potential evolutionary changes), and compare these to patterns in different fish species. Where the model outputs generate a pattern akin to that of a natural species, the underlying parameter changes will indicate which biological aspects of the pattern formation process might be altered in that species. Conversely, where an extant species’ pattern fails to be replicated by the model, that will indicate where extra evolutionary novelty may be utilised. By undertaking this project, you will therefore make important contributions to the understanding of a key problem in pattern formation and its evolution.

Candidate Requirements:

Applicants should hold, or expect to receive, a First Class or good Upper Second Class Honours degree (or the equivalent) in a relevant discipline.  A master’s level qualification would also be advantageous.

Non-UK applicants must meet our English language entry requirement.

Enquiries and Applications:

Candidates are encouraged to discuss the project directly with Prof Robert Kelsh before applying (email address: [Email Address Removed]).

Formal applications should be made via the University of Bath’s online application form for a PhD in Biology.

On the application form, quote ‘Evolution Education Trust’ in the Finance section and the supervisor’s name and project title in the ‘Your research interests’ section. If applying for more than one project, quote the projects in order of preference and upload a separate personal statement relevant to each one.

Your application must be complete when you submit it to us. Incomplete applications cannot be considered. Please ensure you have completed all fields on the application form and supplied the contact details of TWO referees willing to provide us with a reference when requested (one must be from your most recent place of study). Also, you should ensure that you have uploaded all the required documents. See our website for more information.

Funding Eligibility:

To be eligible for funding, you must qualify as a Home student. The eligibility criteria for Home fee status are detailed and too complex to be summarised here in full; however, as a general guide, the following applicants will normally qualify subject to meeting residency requirements: UK nationals (living in the UK or EEA/Switzerland), Irish nationals (living in the UK or EEA/Switzerland), those with Indefinite Leave to Remain and EU nationals with pre-settled or settled status in the UK under the EU Settlement Scheme). This is not intended to be an exhaustive list. Additional information may be found on our fee status guidance webpage, on the GOV.UK website and on the UKCISA website.

Exceptional Overseas students (e.g. with a UK Master’s Distinction or international equivalent and relevant research experience), who are interested in this project, should contact the lead supervisor in the first instance to discuss the possibility of applying for supplementary funding.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion:

We value a diverse research environment and aim to be an inclusive university, where difference is celebrated and respected. We welcome and encourage applications from diverse backgrounds and under-represented groups.

If you have circumstances that you feel we should be aware of that have affected your educational attainment, then please feel free to tell us about it in your application form. The best way to do this is a short paragraph at the end of your personal statement.