PhD Studentship: Development and application of powerful methods for identifying selective sweeps i

Human Development & Health

Location: Southampton General Hospital

Closing Date:  Friday 19 May 2017

Reference: 856117AF

Lead Institute / Faculty: University of Southampton / Faculty of Medicine

Main Supervisor: Prof Andrew Collins

Other members of the supervisory team: Prof Tim Sluckin, Dr Reuben Pengelly, Prof Sarah Ennis

Duration of the award: 3 years

Project description: Over the long history of our species we have been exposed to many changes in environmental conditions and numerous different diseases. Individuals with a genetic background better adapted to these stresses were able to pass on their beneficial gene sequences with higher frequency. This mechanism of natural selection has left signatures in our genome which might be found in genes involved in, among other examples, drug metabolism, genetic resistance to disease, and physiological adaptations to living at high altitude or high latitudes. A great opportunity to identify and understand these targets of selection is provided by the availability of DNA sequences from large numbers of human genomes, for example through the 100,000 Genomes Project

(https://www.genomicsengland.co.uk/portfolio/population-genomics-gecip-domain/).

Furthermore, the availability of sequenced genomes from other species, including those of great economic importance, such as the chicken, provides an opportunity to identify the target genes for artificial selection programs. Identifying these genes may suggest, for example, routes to commercially actionable programs to enhance food production.   

This project will employ powerful mathematical models, developed at the University of Southampton (UoS), to identify DNA sequences which have been the subject of intense recent natural selection. The work will begin by developing and applying these models for analysis of human genome sequence data collected through the 100,000 Genomes Project along with DNA sequences from commercial chicken lines (egg laying and broiler chickens).   The project is a collaborative undertaking between members of the UoS Faculty of Medicine and UoS Mathematical Sciences.

The prospective candidate must have at least an upper second-class degree in a relevant Biological field (for example, Genetics or Bioinformatics) with a strong interest in Genomics, or alternatively in Mathematics, Computer Science or a related subject, with a strong interest in the practical application of quantitative methods in biology. Previous programming experience in a Linux environment, although not absolutely necessary, is highly desirable. This exciting interdisciplinary project requires both enthusiasm for the development of mathematical and computational solutions in biological research and a positive attitude towards interdisciplinary research. 

If you wish to discuss any details of the project informally, please contact Professor Andrew Collins (arc@soton.ac.uk), Professor Tim Sluckin (t.j.sluckin@soton.ac.uk), Professor Sarah Ennis (se@soton.ac.uk) or Dr Reuben Pengelly (R.J.Pengelly@soton.ac.uk). 

Please contact:  Professor Andrew Collins (a.r.collins@soton.ac.uk)

Person Specification:  See below

The successful candidate is likely to have the following qualifications:

• A 1^stor 2:1 degree in a relevant discipline and/or second degree with a related Masters

Funding information:

The project is funded for 3 years and welcomes applicants from the UK and EU who have or expect to obtain a 1^stor 2:1 degree in a relevant discipline and/or second degree with a related Masters. Funding will cover fees and a stipend at current Research Council UK rates (currently £14,296 at 2016/17 rates) per annum.

Administrative contact and how to apply:

Please complete the University's online application form, which you can find at

https://studentrecords.soton.ac.uk/BNNRPROD/bzsksrch.P_Login?pos=7209&majr;=7209&term;=201718

You should enter Prof Andrew Collins as your proposed supervisor. To support your application provide an academic CV (including contact details of two referees), official academic transcripts and a personal statement (outlining your suitability for the studentship, what you hope to achieve from the PhD and your research experience to date).

Informal enquiries relating to the project or candidate suitability should be directed to Prof Andrew Collins.

Closing date: Friday 19^th May, 2017

Interview date:  To be confirmed

Further details:

• Job Description and Person Specification