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Genome evolution, speciation and molecular population genetics of stick insects

Supervisor: Associate Professor Thomas Buckley
Co-supervisors: Associate Professor Richard Newcomb, Dr Howard Ross

Next generation DNA sequencing and analysis of whole genomes has opened new possibilities for testing fundamental questions in speciation and adaptation. The successful candidate for this PhD project will generate a draft genome sequence for a New Zealand stick insect (Clitarchus hookeri) and use this as a tool for exploring detailed questions on adaptation within a species and between closely related species. The common stick insect (Clitarchus hookeri) is widespread through much of New Zealand. This species is particularly interesting at it is a geographic parthenogen and has hybridized with closely related species. The successful candidate will perform Illumina sequencing and assemble and annotate a draft genome. This draft genome will be used as a scaffold for RAD-tag studies of SNP variation within C. hookeri and among closely related species. Transcriptome data will also be collected and mapped to the draft genome to obtain candidate genes underlying phenotypic traits for further studies on selection and adaptation. Variation at candidate genes will be measured and compared within and among populations of C. hookeri and among related species. The successful candidate should have experience in molecular evolution and genomics with an interest in developing skills in the assembly and analysis of Next Generation DNA sequence data. This project is funded by the Allan Wilson Centre for Molecular Ecology and Evolution and includes a $25,000 NZD per year scholarship, $5,000 for tuition fees, and funding for international travel.

For more information and host institutions and supervisors� research interests see the following links:

Associate Professor Thomas Buckley http://www.landcareresearch.co.nz/research/staff_page.asp?staff_num=1110
http://www.bioscienceresearch.co.nz/staff/thomas_buckley/

Associate Professor Richard Newcomb
http://www.bioscienceresearch.co.nz/staff/richard-newcomb/

Dr Howard Ross
http://www.bioscienceresearch.co.nz/staff/howard-ross/

To apply for this position please contact Thomas Buckley at the email address below. Potential candidates should submit a CV, two references, and a short statement of research interests to:

Thomas Buckley
buckleyt@landcareresearch.co.nz+64-9-574-4116


Thomas Buckley
Research Group Leader, Landcare Research
Associate Professor, University of Auckland
Principal Investigator, Allan Wilson Centre for Molecular Ecology & Evolution

Tel: (+64 9) 574 4116  |  Fax: (+64 9) 574 4101  |  Email: buckleyt@landcareresearch.co.nz
Post: Private Bag 92170, Auckland, New Zealand  |  Web: http://www.landcareresearch.co.nz/research/staff_page.asp?staff_num=1110

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