The University of Swansea is seeking a Research Assistant in Fish Epigenetics to join its team at the Singleton Campus, Swansea.

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 design of the experimental plan under the supervision of the PI and the PDRA.
• Lead the experimental and molecular laboratory parts of the project under the training and supervision of the PDRA and PI.
• Participate in the Bioinformatics and statistical analyses in collaboration with the PI and PDRA.
• Participate in the writing up of papers and reports on the results of the project as required, in collaboration with the PDRA, PI, CoI and collaborators.
• Disseminate/communicate the results of the projects at academic conferences, general public events and social media (when relevant).
• Attend regular meetings to discuss the progress of the project with the PI, CoI and collaborators.

For more information on the role and to apply, follow the link below!