A Ph.D. assistantship is available in the Hogan Lab at Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi (TAMUCC). The student will join an NSF Macrosystems-funded project to study population genomics of vernal pool branchiopods. The project is using reduced representation genome sequencing (RADseq) to assess patterns of genetic diversity and gene flow among populations across the central United States by wind driven processes and animal vectors (birds) as well as determining genome-by-environment correlations. The Ph.D. student will join a team of researchers that includes Dr. Jim Thorp (University of Kansas), Dr. Kevin McCluney (Bowling Green State University), and Dr. Chris Patrick (Virginia Institute of Marine Science), and others.
The student will lead field work in Texas to sample vernal pool ecosystems for invertebrates, as well as contribute to the maintenance of mesocosm experiments at TAMUCC. The student will develop population genomic datasets from spatial and temporal samples from five study populations, including patterns of diversity and signatures of selection, and genetic drift. Extensive opportunities for collaboration across the multi-institutional team, including within the HoBi Lab and Marine Genomics Lab at TAMUCC.
The position is ideally suited to researchers with a background in wetlands ecology, population and community ecology, and population genomics. No specific experience in vernal pool ecology is required. Experience with RAD library preparation, RADseq analysis pipelines, analysis of population genetics data, and database management are highly sought after. Applicants with evidence of productivity, strong oral and written communication abilities, and enthusiasm are especially encouraged to apply. The successful applicant will be an independent, motivated person who communicates well and enjoys working in a collaborative team.
**Assistantship details**
The Ph.D. assistantship in TAMUCC’s Marine Biology (MARB) program will begin in Spring 2021 (January). Partial RA funds and tuition support at available. Competitive assistantships are also available through the MARB program that cover salary and benefits. Assistantship includes health insurance and other benefits. Teaching Assistantships are also available. Funding for conference travel is available. Applicants ideally will have an MS degree prior to starting.
**Application process**
Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. Interested candidates should email Dr. J. Derek Hogan (james.hogan@tamucc.edu). In your email please include: 1) a one-page cover letter describing your interest in the position and your relevant skills you possess. The letter must address your experience in population genetics analysis; 2) a CV including education history, publications, conference presentations and grant/scholarship funding; and 3) the names and contact information for three scientists familiar with your research work.
**Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi**
TAMUCC is located in Texas’ coastal bend on the Gulf of Mexico. TAMUCC has recently been ranked as a tier 2 research university by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. The Marine Biology program is the largest Ph.D. program on campus and consists of approximately 30 research faculty and 50 graduate students engaged in marine, estuarine, freshwater, and terrestrial research in the fields of ecosystems, community, and population ecology, evolutionary biology, biogeography, microbial ecology, developmental genetics, restoration ecology, and biomedical research. Corpus Christi is known for an active outdoor life-style including salt-water fishing, wind surfing, sailing, and sea kayaking. The city is 2.5 hours from San Antonio, and 4 hours from cultural centers including Houston and Austin Texas.
