Primary supervisor: Professor Cook van Oosterhout

Scientific background:

Population bottlenecks erode genetic diversity, making threatened species vulnerable to viral epidemics. So, what makes an individual resistant, tolerant, or susceptible (R/T/S) to a virus? This is the main question we aim to answer in this doctoral study. We have collected outbreak data over nearly 20 years and sequenced hundreds of bird genomes, working on some of the best-studied bird models (Mauritian parrot, ring-necked parakeet, red-crowned parakeet, and orange-bellied parakeet). The doctoral candidate will study data from the Mauritius parrot to develop an artificial intelligence model that can predict response to viral infections based on genomic data. Furthermore, there is an option to conduct fieldwork in Mauritius to collect additional field data and perform comparative genomic analyses.

Research methodology:

During this PhD project, we will sequence the genomes of 531 already sampled full sibling pairs with known R/T/S status. (This is funded by a recently awarded NERC grant.) PGR will perform bioinformatic analyzes on these data, focusing on immune genes, and perform comparative genomic analysis across parrots and parrots. They will build an artificial intelligence model to identify genomic predictors of R/T/S in the Mauritius parrot, and will conduct an analysis in SLiM to examine how genetic erosion reduces immune genetic diversity, and how this affects disease susceptibility. The PGR will test the following hypotheses:

1. Genome erosion increases susceptibility to viral infections.
2. Inbred individuals are more susceptible to viral infections.
3. Individuals with a sequence of oncogenic homology (ROH) extending across immune genes are more susceptible to viral infections.
4. Differences in alleles in immune genes explain variation in the disease state of birds.

an exercise:

Artificial intelligence modeling, SLiM modeling (i.e. an individual-based model for assessing population viability), genome analysis, immune gene analysis, applied avian conservation, comparative genomics, tropical fieldwork (optional).

Person specifications:

Previous experience with computer coding (e.g. Python, SLiM), AI modeling, and understanding of evolutionary or conservation genetics/genomics is desirable. Good teamwork skills are essential.

Entry requirements:

At least a UK BA (Hons) equivalency of 2:1. English language requirements (Faculty of Science equivalent: IELTS 6.5 overall, 6 in each category).

Acceptable first degree: Evolutionary Biology, Genetics, Conservation Biology

Study method:

Full time

Start date:

October 1, 2026

Financing information

ARIES Scholarships are governed by UKRITerms and Conditions. Successful candidates who meet UKRI’s eligibility criteria will be awarded a fully-funded scholarship, which covers fees, a maintenance stipend (£20,780 per annum for 2025/26) and a Research Training and Support Grant (RTSG). A limited number of scholarships are available to international applicants, with the difference between ‘national’ and ‘international’ fees waived by the registered university. However, please note that ARIES funding does not cover additional costs associated with moving to and living in the UK, such as visa costs or additional health fees.