Timing of spawning and migratory spawning behavior are affected by temperature and light conditions. There are population differences in seasonality and spawning behavior that are linked to genetic variants of certain genes. These genes have not been determined yet, but there are strong indications that some of the genes involved in cod are the same or similar to what is known for other fishes. A better understanding of seasonal variations in cod would be of great importance for fisheries as well as management of cod stocks.
We are seeking one or two master students: The master students will as a first step investigate which genes that may be associated with seasonality. Furthermore, investigate population genetic variation in these candidate genes – and how they are regulated. Population genomic data that have been already generated along with additional (new) data will be the foundation for the study. This project will involve both experimental lab work and bioinformatics – and field work. The master project will be part of a larger project on Atlantic cod population genomics, and there will be a team of researchers at CEES as well as internationally to interact with.
What you will learn: You will learn bioinformatics, statistical methods, evolutionary genomics, cell biology, fish experiments and get experience in field work. Scientific team-work is another skill you will learn. The training in bioinformatics/statistics in combination with field-work will be very attractive for jobs in academia and outside.
What we offer: We offer a friendly and kind mentoring environment with a lot of experience in supervising master students. We also offer the possibility of joining research schools such as the NORBIS and Digital Life Research School and to attend international courses fitting your master project.
Supervisors: Kjetill S Jakobsen and Inga Steindal