Conservation and Population Genomics of Sinistral Snails on São Tomé and Príncipe
Not stated
- Funding
- Self-Funded PhD Students Only
- Application deadline
- Year-round applications
About the project
About the Project (scientific summary; context of wider project; lab environment; research consortium involvement; research centres; training opportunities; techniques) Left–right asymmetry (chirality) in land snails has long served as a model for understanding developmental evolution, but on São Tomé and Príncipe it intersects with an urgent conservation challenge. These tropical island islands are home to Archachatina bicarinata, a giant left-coiling snail now endangered and declining, as well as multiple other left-coiling snail species. Unfortunately, emerging evidence suggests that a related snail, A. marginata, introduced because it is edible, may spread pathogens that disproportionately impact the endemic snails of the islands. The aim of this project is to a) use whole genome sequencing data from multiple individuals and species within the wider group, so as to investigate evolutionary relationships between the Archachatina species and relatives, with a view to understanding the origins of chiral variation and b) to screen for potential pathogen sequences present in associated metagenomic reads. The overarching hypothesis is that genomic analysis will reveal both the demographic history of the species, and possibly the chirality-determining locus, as well as the signatures of pathogens that may be contributing to the decline of these now endangered species. We are seeking a motivated student with experience in biology, genetics, zoology, bioinformatics, or a related subject, a strong interest in evolution, genomics, or conservation biology, and an ability to work independently and collaboratively. Field work is likely. Ability to speak Portuguese helpful but not necessary. Programming or command line experience also not necessary, full training will be provided. The project duration is 4 years; full-time and part-time options available. Home and International students are welcome to apply.