PhD Studentship: Evolutionary Genomics of Mimicry in Neotropical Catfishes
Investigate the genomic basis of adaptive mimicry in Neotropical catfishes using population and comparative genomics.
Best for:Best for biology or genetics graduates with an interest in evolutionary genomics and bioinformatics training.
Overview
The University of East Anglia is offering a fully-funded PhD studentship within the School of Biological Sciences to study the evolutionary genomics of mimicry in Neotropical Corydoradinae catfishes. The project examines how independent mimicry rings evolve similar colour patterns and tests the predictability of adaptive evolution using whole-genome resequencing, RNA-seq, and comparative genomic methods. The successful candidate will receive comprehensive training in bioinformatics, high-performance computing, and evolutionary genomics. Applicants are expected to hold a high-level degree in a relevant biological discipline and possess a strong interest in evolutionary biology.
What you'll do
- Analyze chromosome-level reference genomes and whole-genome resequencing data from mimetic and non-mimetic species
- Identify genomic signatures of divergent selection, selective sweeps, and molecular adaptation associated with mimicry
- Process and evaluate RNA-seq datasets to investigate gene expression patterns related to pigmentation
- Participate in high-performance computing and bioinformatics pipeline development
- Contribute to collaborative research activities and potential fieldwork opportunities in South America
Requirements
Degree required: First or Upper Second-Class degree (or equivalent) in Biology, Genetics, Genomics, Evolutionary Biology, Zoology or a related discipline
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English
Instruction: English
- Strong interest in evolutionary biology and genomics
- Academic background in biology, genetics, genomics, or a related discipline
- Capacity to engage with high-performance computing and computational data analysis
- Open to applicants meeting UKRI eligibility criteria for home or international status
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-12-16
Candidates should submit their application through the university postgraduate research application portal. Ensure all required academic transcripts and supporting documentation are prepared according to the institution guidelines.
- CV
- Academic transcripts
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