Opis stanowiska
Background. Understanding the mechanisms driving evolution of the genes underlying adaptive immunity is of major scientific importance and has implications for conservation. In this project we will test whether Antigen Processing Genes (APG) coevolve with Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) class I genes in salamanders. Coevolution has been suggested as the ancestral vertebrate condition, potentially limiting the efficiency and flexibility of adaptive immunity. Selection pressure to remove this constraint is therefore expected in multiple evolutionary lineages. Limited information available for salamanders reveals intriguing patterns of MHC I and APG variation, making this group ideal for testing the coevolution hypothesis and providing fundamental insights into the evolution of the adaptive immunity.
Job description. The postdoc will test predictions of the coevolution hypothesis. More specifically (s)he will: i) resequence the focal genes in multiple species from several families, ii) perform bioinformatics analysis of resequencing data, iii) test for correlation between APG and MHC variation iv) look for signatures of adaptive evolution. (S)he will work together with the PI and other team members, including a network of international collaborators.
Requirements:
• PhD degree in biology or a related discipline obtained not earlier than 7 years prior to the employment in the project (note: this period is extended in case of paternity leave, or other circumstances described in the Polish National Science Centre OPUS project regulations), or
• A statement that the PhD thesis has been submitted and the candidate is expected to obtain the degree before commencing the employment;
• Hands-on experience in the bioinformatic analysis of DNA sequence data in evolutionary context;
Specific criteria used in the selection procedure:
– experience in Linux/Unix shell and scripting (Python/Perl/R) skills
– background in population genetics and/or molecular evolution
– molecular laboratory experience
– publication record;
– experience in leading projects, working in international teams, internships;
– opinion of the recognized researchers with whom the candidate collaborated;
– communication skills, communication in English language.