Postdoctoral Fellow - Genomics of Climate Adaptability

There is mounting evidence for large differences between species in their ability to adapt to climate change. In particular it appears that some ‘climate specialists’ confined to tropical or semi-tropical rainforest habitats may have negligible ability to adapt to altered climate regimes (see eg Nature 470: 479; Science 325:1244). There would clearly be profound consequences for biodiversity management strategies if this proves to be a general phenomenon.

CSIRO, University of Melbourne and Monash University have therefore begun a large, multidisciplinary collaboration to test a range of species for their phenotypic and genotypic abilities to adapt to altered climates, and to determine the genomic and transcriptomic basis for these abilities. Population re-sequencing will also allow us to genetically map intra-specific variation in the relevant traits. The initial focus is on 20Drosophila species with widely differing climate niches but extensions to other taxa will also be undertaken. Results will be integrated into models also under development in the project that predict the fate of species with varying abilities to adapt under different climate change scenarios.

You will have primary responsibility for developing and implementing a bioinformatic and biostatistical approach that uses the genome, transcriptome and re-sequencing data to determine the genetic basis of the differences in climate adaptability among the different species. You would also have the opportunity to contribute to empirical studies. 

Specifically you will:

• Undertake research on the population and comparative genomics and transcriptomics of climate stress responses in Drosophila and certain other species.
• Participate in the identification of further opportunities arising from research and initiate new lines of research.
• Under broad supervision, assist in the planning and preparation of research proposals and carry out investigations requiring originality, creativity and innovation.
• Present results in a meaningful format and write scientific papers for publication.

Location:   Canberra, ACT
Salary:       AU$75K - $82K per annum plus up to 15.4% superannuation 
Tenure:      3 year term
Ref No:       ACT12/00534 

To be successful you will have : 

• A PhD, or will shortly satisfy requirements for a PhD, in a relevant field with not more than 3 years postdoctoral working experience.
• Demonstrated experience in genome bioinformatics / biostatistics or quantitative population / evolutionary genetics.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and pursue novel research approaches.
• Evidence of strong oral and written communication skills

About CSIRO:    Australia is founding its future on science and innovation. Its national science agency, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), is a powerhouse of ideas, technologies and skills for building prosperity, growth, health and sustainability. It serves governments, industries, business and communities:  www.csiro.au