About the Project
How does novelty arise in evolution? Does environmental change drive genome complexity, and if so how? These are central questions in evolutionary biology, and they are the questions that drive research in our lab.
Using a combination of molecular genetic manipulations/analyses and experimental evolution, within the context of gene regulatory networks (GRNs) you will explore whether more complex GRNs promote survival and create opportunities for innovation in changeable environments. This project will conduct experiments with a genetically modified common soil bacterium that has had the ’master switch’ of the flagellar network deleted. Firstly, it will address the role that gene duplication plays in the evolution of complex gene networks. It will do this by observing the divergence between duplicated genes from a different network that is capable of ‘mending’ flagellar function (1). Secondly, it will test the hypothesis that more complex networks provide a fitness benefit in less predictable environments (2). It will do this by using genetically manipulated bacteria with step-wise increases in network complexity and evolve them in static and changing environments. Lastly, it will look across a range of bacteria of the same species, which inhabit different environments, to link life-histories with network architecture (3).
Location: This project will be conducted under the direct supervision of Dr Tiffany Taylor with co-supervision from Prof Laurence Hurst, and based at the Department of Biology and Biochemistry at the University of Bath (UK) in the new Milner Centre for Evolution (http://www.bath.ac.uk/groups/milner-centre-for-evolution/). The Milner Centre is a new research centre focused on doing ground breaking research that addresses major questions in evolutionary biology. The Milner Genomics Centre provides on-site facilities and expertise for genome sequencing and analysis for evolution research, and the world-class researchers at the centre creates a vibrant research culture that ensures support and training for the next generation of evolutionary biologist.
Requirements: This is a fully-funded PhD studentship. We are looking for a biology graduate who has a strong interest in genetics and evolution. Some practical experience in microbiology and molecular techniques is highly desired but training will be provided. The successful candidate will be enthusiastic, highly motivated, independent, have experience in microbiology, molecular biology or evolutionary biology (or a combination), and have a relevant degree. The applicant must meet the standard University of Bath English language requirements.
Planned start date: 1 October 2018.
Interviews are anticipated to take place in the week commencing 5 February 2018.
Applications may close earlier than the advertised deadline if a suitable candidate is found so early applications are strongly recommended.
For informal enquiries, please contact Tiffany Taylor [Email Address Removed]
References
1. Taylor, T. B., Mulley, G., Dills, A. H., Alsohim, A. S., McGuffin, L. J., Studholme, D. J., Silby, M. W.,Brockhurst, M. A., Johnson, L. J. and Jackson, R. W. (2015). Evolutionary resurrection of flagellar motility via rewiring of the nitrogen regulation system. Science, 347 (6225), 1014-1017.
2. Jenkins, D. J., & Stekel, D. J. (2010). De novo evolution of complex, global and hierarchical gene regulatory mechanisms. Journal of molecular evolution, 71 (2), 128-140.
3. Merhej, V., Royer-Carenzi, M., Pontarotti, P., & Raoult, D. (2009). Massive comparative genomic analysis reveals convergent evolution of specialized bacteria. Biology direct, 4(1), 13.
Additional:
Taylor, T. B., Mulley, G., McGuffin, L. J., Johnson, L. J., Brockhurst, M. A., Arseneault, T., Silby, M. W. & Jackson, R. W. (2015). Evolutionary rewiring of bacterial regulatory networks. Microbial Cell Factories, 2 (7), 256-258.
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