M.S. Student in Population Genomics

A new fully-funded MS student position is available to participate in a USDA-ARS-supported study investigating genetic population structure and potential local adaptation of lumpfish (Cyclopterus lumpus) in the Gulf of Maine (GoM). A new selective breeding program is being developed at the National Cold Water Marine Aquaculture Center in Franklin, ME, with the goal of producing genetically improved Lumpfish for co-culture in Atlantic salmon commercial net pens. This project will characterize genetic diversity and population structure using whole genome sequencing approaches on representative samples of wild lumpfish from across the GoM and surrounding regions. Environmental variables such as temperature will be correlated with genetic variation, and common-garden experiments may be conducted to test for adaptive variation. This research will help ensure that lumpfish broodstock used in selective breeding efforts capture natural levels of diversity, and this work may identify key adaptive traits, such as thermal tolerance, which would inform selective breeding decisions as well as understanding the natural history of lumpfish and adaptation in marine systems.

For additional information and to apply: https://forms.gle/bK3gpn1f61uB179g9