Fully Funded PhD Position in Evolutionary Developmental Biology, Genomics, and Bioinformatics

This fully funded PhD position at the Biodiversity Research Institute (IRBio) of the University of Barcelona focuses on the project *OikoLoss*, investigating how gene loss drives evolutionary innovation in chordates. The research integrates evolutionary developmental biology (EvoDevo), functional genomics, single-cell transcriptomics, and population genomics, using *Oikopleura dioica* as a model organism. The successful candidate will conduct cutting-edge experiments, including CRISPR gene editing, single-cell RNA sequencing, and comparative genomics, while collaborating with international partners. The position offers a multidisciplinary environment with opportunities for research stays abroad and comprehensive training in advanced bioinformatics and molecular techniques.

• Conduct advanced molecular and genomic experiments, including CRISPR-knockouts, single-cell RNA sequencing, and PacBio HiFi long-read genomic sequencing.
• Analyze and interpret data using bioinformatics tools and comparative genomics approaches.
• Perform embryo culture, manipulation, and functional experiments to study gene loss impacts on development.
• Collaborate with international partners and undertake research stays at institutions such as OIST (Okinawa), IGFL (Lyon), SARS (Bergen), and CRG (Barcelona).
• Develop and implement research protocols for single-cell omics and gene-expression analyses.
• Present research findings at conferences and publish results in high-impact journals.
• Contribute to multidisciplinary research projects integrating genomics, developmental biology, and ecology.