We are currently inviting applications for a PhD position on microbiome dynamics in a eusocial termite.
In this project we will use a model termite species, Zootermopsis angusticollis, that has a symbiotic relationship with its highly co-evolved gut microbiome to understand the dynamics of microbiome invasions. Microbiome transplants regularly occur in this species via trophallaxis among colony members and between colonies when competing colonies meet in the log resource in which they live and feed. Interacting colonies often fight to the death, but also regularly fuse into one cooperative team. We will use a combination of controlled experiments on our established lab population with ecological validation on wild colonies at field sites in California to understand complex interactions between microbial communities and the resultant effects on termite fitness. We will also develop and test new theory to formalise our predictions and underpin our empirical work.
The PhD is based at the University of Exeter, with Dr Faye Thompson as primary supervisor, and the successful applicant will be working with a team of researchers in social evolution, microbial ecology and evolution, mathematics and genomic techniques (including Prof. Angus Buckling, Dr Xavier Harrison, Dr Ben Ashby, and Dr Hazel Nichols).
Further details and the application site is here:
Dr Hazel Nichols
Darlithydd mewn Biowyddorau / Associate Professor in Biosciences
Adran Biowyddorau / Department of Biosciences
Coleg Gwyddoniaeth / College of Science
Prifysgol Abertawe / Swansea University
Abertawe / Swansea
SA2 8PP
UK