Join our dynamic team to explore how life thrives in some of the planet’s harshest habitats. This PhD will investigate the molecular and regulatory basis of extreme environmental tolerance in fish, advancing biodiversity conservation and climate-resilient aquaculture.
Project Title: From Genes to Phenotypes: Network-Based Insights into Extreme Habitat Adaptation
What You’ll Do:
• Sequence and compare genomes of Alcolapia and Oreochromis fish species
• Link salinity tolerance to underlying physiology and genetic networks through experimental assays
• Integrate transcriptomic (RNA-seq) and epigenomic (ATAC-seq) data to reveal key regulators of adaptation
• Apply machine learning and systems biology to map genotype–phenotype links and create impact by developing user-friendly tools for sustainable aquaculture
Why Apply?
• Work with a dynamic and supportive team, including Dr Tarang Mehta (Liverpool), Prof. Kanchon Dasmahapatra (York), Prof. George Turner (Bangor), and Prof. Julia Day (UCL).
• Work at the interface of evolutionary genetics, physiology, and computational biology.
• Access cutting-edge sequencing, lab, and high-performance computing facilities.
• Train in advanced bioinformatics, data science, experimental assays, and transferable skills.
• Present your research at international conferences, deliver high-impact publications, and engage wider audiences through science communication
Who Should Apply? Enthusiastic candidates with a background in biology, bioinformatics, genomics, evolutionary biology, or related fields.
Don't miss this chance to make a significant impact on environmental adaptation and aquaculture innovation. More information on the project here: www.findaphd.com/phds/project/acce-dla-programme-from-genes-to-phenotypes-network-based-insights-into-extreme-habitat-adaptation/?p189585
If interested, please contact Tarang Mehta (Tarang.Mehta@liverpool.ac.uk) and questions will be answered via the FAQ: docs.google.com/document/d/1iXoFbMBxivCXyFlU6Qs908lnZ1VL3Dxx/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=101504084875889553596&rtpof=true&sd=true
This fully funded PhD is open to both UK and international students, starting October 2026, with further details in the advert and ACCE+ website (accedtp.ac.uk/). If interested, please apply now: accedtp.ac.uk/how-to-apply/
Application Deadline: 7th January 2026