The university of Swansea has an open postdoc position in fish epigenetics investigating the role of non-genetic (epigenetic) regulatory mechanisms influenced by the environment on the evolution of temperature-dependent sex-determination.

About the role

Sex determination is remarkably variable in vertebrates; sexes can be separate or together in the same individual (hermaphrodites), and can be determined by chromosomes, master genes or even by the environment. Why such a critical process for species’ survival is so variable?

This project will investigate the role of non-genetic (epigenetic) regulatory mechanisms influenced by the environment on the evolution of temperature-dependent sex-determination, by testing the hypothesis that random epigenetic changes occurring on genes related to sex-determination can persist over generations when affected by natural selection, and in this way explain the variety of sex-determination routes observed in vertebrates.

The main specific tasks of the post include:

• Participate in the experimental design and development of the experimental plan together with the PI, CoI and collaborators.
• Carry out Bioinformatics and statistical analyses in collaboration with the PI.
• Train/supervise the Research Assistant in laboratory work and analyses, in collaboration with the PI and CoI.
• Leads the write up papers and reports on the results of the project as required, in collaboration with the PI, CoI and collaborators.
• Disseminate/communicate the results of the projects at academic conferences, general public events and social media (when relevant).
• Organise regular meetings to discuss the progress of the project with the PI, CoI and collaborators.

Find more information about the role and apply through the link below by the 22nd of August 2024.