PhD in Biological Sciences

Catfishes are the most diverse group of venomous vertebrates (>3,000 species), yet the molecular basis and evolutionary origins of their venoms remain poorly understood. This project will integrate transcriptomics, proteomics, and comparative genomics to decode venom gene evolution in the subfamily Corydoradinae, a hyperdiverse Amazonian clade (>160 species) characterized by extensive Müllerian mimicry and whole genome duplication. You will gain expertise in molecular biology, bioinformatics, and computational skills, equipping you with a strong skill set for a career in evolutionary genetics, genomics, or bioinformatics. Most samples are available; fieldwork opportunities in South America may arise subject to funding.