Background: Passer sparrows are a hugely successful and wide-spread genus of birds. However, apart from the house sparrow, relatively little is known about their population genomics and evolutionary history. The Spanish sparrow (Passer hispaniolensis) is widespread, occurring across North Africa, the Mediterranean and into Central Asia. It is also one of the parental species of the Italian sparrow, a homoploid hybrid that formed following extensive hybridisation with the house sparrow. This project will draw on an extensive set of genome sequences, samples and phenotypic data from the Spanish sparrow from across its distribution. It will seek to identify population structure and reconstruct the evolutionary history of this interesting but understudied species.
We are seeking: A motivated MSc student with an interest in understanding how evolution shapes biogeography and biodiversity. You will help analyse and contribute to a growing dataset of phenotypic and genomic data. You will also be able to work alongside our international team of collaborators.
What you will learn: You will learn how to answer evolutionary questions using modern techniques. You will gain experience in DNA wet lab work, 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.
What we offer: This is an opportunity to join a small, friendly research group with a focus on close mentorship and skills development. We conduct weekly lab meetings, group discussions and provide hands-on training.