Postdoc: Thermosensory Evolution

We have an opening for a 4 year postdoc (supported by a Leverhulme Project Grant) to investigate the evolution of temperature perception and thermotaxis.

Background: Like many insect taxa, Drosophila species have inhabited diverse habitats around the world and have shown the ability to adapt to diverse temperature environments. We’d like to know how evolutionary changes in thermoreceptors and sensory neurons contribute to these adaptations. This project will use closely related species pairs (D. santomea/D. yakuba and D. takahshii/D. lutescens) in which parallel preferences for cool temperatures have evolved in parallel. The aim will be to develop neurogenic tools in these species and to use them to study evolutionary changes in their thermoperception and to relate the differences to behavioural changes.

Qualificaitons: Candidates will need to hold a PhD in neurobiology, genetics, evolution, biology, or a related field. Ideally, candidates will have experience in at least one of the following: fly genetics, transgenics/CRISPR approaches, neurophysiology, comparative/evolutionary biology.

To apply: feel free to send direct inquires (r.arguello@qmul.ac.uk). Formal applications must be made through QMUL here (link to follow).

Deadline: March 10

Targeted Start Date: April 1