Evolution of sex chromosomes in reptiles

Project description:
The aim of the project is to examine the evolution of sex chromosomes and their homology based on gene content in selected lineages of reptiles, a specie-rich group, involving lineages with either XX/XY, ZZ/ZW or temperature-dependent sex determination. Despite the recent advances in the field, our knowledge about their sex determination systems and sex chromosome homology is limited only to few groups of reptiles (eg. iguanas, advanced snakes), while the majority of reptilian lineages remain unstudied. The successful candidate will study the evolution of sex chromosomes in a multi-directional approach, involving cytogenetics (FISH, chromosome painting), molecular genetics (qPCR) and/or bioinformatics (genomics/transcriptomics).

Start: October 2019, Duration: 4 years

Qualifications:
The applicant should possess Master degree (or equivalent title) and a proven expertise in a related field of biology: evolutionary biology, cytogenetics, phylogenetics, genomics and/or bioinformatics. Previous experience in herpetology is not necessary.

Application:
The applicant should send a short motivation letter (max 2 pages) explaining his/her background, a CV and contact information for two references to Dr. Michail Rovatsos ([Email Address Removed]).

Financial support:
The PhD position will be financially supported with stipend for maximum time of 4 years, starting from October 2019. Additional support will provided from projests financed from Grant Agency of Czech Republic.

Suitable candidates will be interviewed until Friday 26/4.

For any additional information, do not hesitate to write an email. Info about the team’s activities in our website: https://mirovatsos.wordpress.com/


Michail Rovatsos

Assistant Professor
Department of Ecology
Faculty of Science
Charles University
Vinicna 7, 12844 Prague
Czech Republic