Title: Epigenetic potential as driver of ecological differences among sparrow species

Background:

Epigenetic mechanisms ¨C changes in gene expression that do not involve changes in the DNA sequence, such as DNA methylation ¨C enable more rapid and plastic phenotypic responses than are possible via genetic change, and have been suggested to mediate rapid individual and population responses to novel or changing environments. Individual genomes may differ in their capacity to respond epigenetically ¨C i.e. epigenetic potential. A high epigenetic potential has been suggested to mediate adaptive responses to environmental variation, and thus eventually individual and population differences in environmental coping. The Passer sparrow species complex is diverse, with at least 4 major species in Europe and around 28 globally. This includes the house sparrow, an obligate human commensal and one of the most populous and widespread introduced birds on earth. This species is of particular interest because it has undergone several major range expansions in the last two centuries, largely through human activity. Using whole genome sequencing data from 5 species, this project will investigate the differences in epigenetic potential among Passer sparrows, and whether they may be mediating the wide ecological differences they have experienced during these repeated introductions.

We are seeking:

A motivated MSc student with an interest in the molecular and physiological mechanisms underlying animal behaviour and adaptation. You will join a novel research line on ecological epigenetics, having the opportunity to learn and join every step of the research (i.e. fieldwork with wild birds, statistical analyses, bioinformatics).

What you will learn:

You will learn how to answer eco-evolutionary questions using modern techniques and molecular approaches. You will gain experience in behavioural ecology, ecophysiology, bioinformatics and genomics. There will also be opportunities for fieldwork and gaining experience in handling birds. The skills you will gain will provide an important foundation for future applications to PhD positions or to jobs in industry.