We are a newly formed lab interested in understanding the genetic and neural bases of sensory evolution. We take a very interdisciplinary approach that bridges computational/comparative genomics with neurogenetics. Our model organisms are diverse Drosophila species from around the globe, and we are particularly interested in the evolution of neural circuits and in the evolutionary processes related to the rapid changes underlying olfaction and temperature preference.
The specific focus for this position will be on olfactory evolution. The projects will relate repeated gains/losses in olfactory receptors to the evolution of their protein sequences, to their neural circuits, and to behavior. This work will test hypotheses about how the olfactory system evolves, and to what extent these changes are repeatable. Due to the cross-disciplinary nature of the research, there is a range of opportunities for contributing to the projects depending on particular interests and strengths (i.e. comparative/population genomics, neurobiology, generation of transgenic tools for new species).
Qualification include a PhD in genetics, evolutionary biology, neurobiology, or a related field, the ability to be self-motivated and to work independently as well as within a small group, good communication skills, comfortable with public presentations, and the ability to clearly document work. Additionally, expertise with several of the following tasks is required, and an interest/willingness to learn some of the others:
- molecular evolution and/or population genomic analyses
- statistics and next-generation sequence analyses (programming/scripting in one or more languages such as Python, Perl, R, etc.)
- molecular biology (CRISPR/Cas9 vector designs)
- electrophysiology
- histochemistry/microscopy (dissecting, tissue preparations, antibody staining, fluorescent in situ hybridization, confocal imaging)
- fly genetics and maintenance
- fly embryo injections for generating transgenic lines and screening
This is a 100% position for an initial duration of one year, renewable up to 2 or 3 years depending on the start date and funding available. The position is dedicated primarily to research, however some contribution to teaching is expected, including the possibility of assisting with the supervision of master students.
The Department of Ecology and Evolution is a lively, fun, productive, and highly diverse group. While UNIL is a French-speaking university, the working language of the Department and the Lab is English. For more information about the Department of Ecology and Evolution please see its page here: https://www.unil.ch/dee/en/home.html
Lausanne is a scenic medium-sized city situated on the edge of Lake Geneva. Life here is good. Its central location within Europe makes traveling by train and plane convenient. And for outdoor enthusiasts, Lausanne sits at the base of Alps and Jura which offer year-round escape and fun.
For more information about the Lab, or for further questions, please visit: arguellolab.org or email Roman at: jacob.arguello@unil.ch
Formal applications need to be done through HR, and must include a cover letter detailing your research interests and background, a CV, and the contact info for references (2-3). Applications should both be uploaded through the University of Lausanne platform (link given below), and sent as a single pdf to jacob.arguello@unil.ch.
Application Link: https://bit.ly/2Ge0DA5
University equality policy: The University of Lausanne promotes an equitable representation of men and women among its staff and encourages applications from women and minority groups.
