Project description

Microscopic organisms are widespread and many species have a cosmopolitan distribution. This pattern suggests that microorganisms (such as phytoplankton), in contrast to most larger organisms, have unlimited dispersal. Unlimited dispersal implies high migration rates and gene flow within a species, and consequently no opportunity for populations to differentiate. However, many studies show that phytoplankton populations are genetically highly differentiated. This implies limited gene flow despite high dispersal, posing a dispersal–differentiation paradox. Explanations to this paradox may include the importance of founding individuals (founder effects), and rapid local adaptation in phytoplankton. Within this project we will experimentally test these hypotheses using a model green algal system.

The postdoctoral fellow will be involved in the research on the dispersal-differentation paradox in phytoplankton, utilizing the model species Chlamydomonas. The project encompasses both experimental laboratory studies as well as some field work. The postdoctoral fellow will be responsible for experimental work testing founder effects and local adaptation in Chlamydomonas populations. The work will include algal culturing, PCR, and preparation of RADseq libraries, in the laboratory. Downstream analyses will include bioinformatic analyses, population genetic analyses, as well as writing manuscripts. The postdoctoral fellow is expected to conduct high quality research and to disseminate results in international scientific publications.

For more information follow the link below and/or contact Karin Rengefors.

Application deadline: 6 March 2019

Procedure: Go to Postdoctoral fellow in Biology, PA2019/75