Anders Bergström

[Fully-funded ARIES studentship covering tuition fees, maintenance stipend (£20,780 p.a. for 2025/26), and research training and support grant (RTSG). International applicants may have the difference between 'home' and 'international' fees waived, but relocation, visa, and health surcharge costs are not covered.] This PhD studentship at the University of East Anglia investigates the historical genomics of the declining red squirrel in Britain, a species that has faced significant population challenges due to invasive species, hunting, and deforestation. Since the late 1700s, various genetic rescue attempts have been made by introducing continental red squirrels, but the impact on genetic diversity, fitness, and ancestry remains poorly understood. The project aims to provide broad insights into the genetics of population decline and rescue, as well as reconstruct the specific genetic history of British red squirrels to inform future conservation efforts. The research will involve sequencing whole genomes from surviving British and continental red squirrel populations, as well as utilizing historical DNA techniques to analyze museum specimens. This approach will allow direct assessment of changes in genetic diversity, inbreeding, and genetic load over time, and evaluate the effects of multiple introductions on the population. The project will also test the hypothesis that native British squirrel ancestry has been lost due to genetic swamping. The successful candidate will receive comprehensive training in molecular biology, historical DNA analysis, genomics, bioinformatics, and population genetics, and will participate in journal clubs, departmental seminars, and conferences to develop critical thinking and science communication skills. Applicants should have a strong background in biological sciences, with interests in genomics, wet-lab work, and evolution. The studentship is fully funded for eligible UK and international candidates, covering tuition fees, a maintenance stipend (£20,780 p.a. for 2025/26), and a research training and support grant. International students may have the fee difference waived, but must cover their own relocation, visa, and health surcharge costs. The position is full-time, starting on 1 October 2026, with an application deadline of 7 January 2025.