Evolutionary Genetics of Sexual Behaviours in Primates
Not stated
- Funding
- Funded PhD Project (UK Students Only)
- Application deadline
- Year-round applications
About the project
About the Project Same-sex sexual behaviour occurs across the animal kingdom, from insects to primates, yet it has long puzzled evolutionary biologists: how can a trait that does not directly produce offspring persist generation after generation? This PhD will tackle that puzzle using one of the longest-running primate field sites in the world, tracking hundreds of male rhesus macaques over three years. Leveraging long-term longitudinal data alongside extensive field observations, our lab provided the first evidence in nonhuman vertebrates that same-sex sexual behaviour has a partial genetic basis and is both widespread and heritable. We also extended these findings to nearly all 500 species of nonhuman primates, examining their associations with environmental, life-history and social traits, and found that same-sex behaviour was more likely in species facing ecological and social pressures, shedding intriguing light on its evolution as a possible mechanism for coping with adversity. This PhD will investigate the genetic and hormonal underpinnings of alternative sexual behaviours, including same-sex behaviour, combining fieldwork, genomics, endocrinology and quantitative analyses. This research will deepen our understanding of how social environments shape sexuality, with implications for both evolutionary theory and behavioural ecology, and reasoning that extends to humans as well. The PhD will be supervised by Professor Vincent Savolainen at Imperial. https://profiles.imperial.ac.uk/v.savolainen Eligibility UK residency is necessary. A first-class honours degree in biology, psychology, or a related discipline is desirable, along with strong analytical skills and enthusiasm for interdisciplinary research.A Master’s distinction would also be an advantage but not necessary. To apply send CV, cover letter and name of two referees to Prof. Vincent Savolainen as soon as possible. Feel free to contact Prof Savolainen informally at v.savolainen@imperial.ac.uk