Genomics of New Zealand trevally: enabling rapid and efficient selective breeding of complex polygenic traits.

We are seeking a highly motivated PhD student to be part of a group to develop a genomics-informed selective breeding programme for New Zealand trevally (Pseudocaranx georgianus).

Supervisors
Dr. Maren Wellenreuther, Plant and Food Research (PFR), Nelson, New Zealand
Dr. Peter Ritchie, Victoria University of Wellington (VUW), New Zealand

Aquaculture is the fastest growing food-production sector and New Zealand has the potential to develop a range of locally grown finfish species to meet the increasing demand. New genomics-based selective breeding programs are needed to help develop recently domesticated fish species into premium products. Plant and Food Research (http://www.plantandfood.co.nz) is known worldwide for its innovative breeding and genomics research, and it is leading the development of New Zealand seafood genomics.

This PhD project will involve work with a group of researchers to assemble the trevally genome, screen for genome-wide markers using a pedigree from a domesticated population, and conduct QTL mapping and gene expression analyses. The research will involve using high-throughput sequenced approaches, coupled with automated and error-reduced phenotyping. The overall goal is to enable rapid and efficient selective breeding of complex polygenic traits.

PhD Project Aims
1. Develop genomic and phenomic tools for selectively breeding trevally,
2. Use genomic information to improve conventional breeding approaches and apply multitrait MAS/GS selection to improve trait gains,
3. Assess fitness of hatchery individuals.

This PhD project will provide an excellent opportunity to learn the latest interdisciplinary technologies and apply them to fish genomics. The PhD student will gain experience working in academic, government and private sector institutions. They will be a member of a highly active and collaborative group of researchers, and help develop new technological approaches and applied-genomic tools.

The successful candidate will be a highly motivated researcher, with a strong background and interest in genomics and molecular evolution. Experience with a coding and/or scripting languages is a bonus. This position will be based primarily in Nelson (http://www.nelsonnz.com) and comes with a three-year scholarship that provides a stipend and university (domestic-level) fees. This project is supported by the MBIE grant ‘Enhancing production of New Zealand’s seafood sector using accelerated breeding techniques’.

Applicants should send a CV, a statement of their research interests and a cover letter to Maren Wellenreuther ([Email Address Removed]) and Peter Ritchie ([Email Address Removed]). Candidates will be considered until the position is filled. The ideal starting date is 1 July 2017. International students with strong credentials are welcome and encouraged to apply. For more information about studying at VUW and the entry requirements for the PhD program please see http://www.victoria.ac.nz/study/programmes-courses/postgraduates/phds-doctorates