Investigating the Direct and Indirect Impacts of rising CO2 on the Kākahi (New Zealand Freshwater Mussel)

We are recruiting a PhD student who will use the latest tools in genomics and molecular biology to understand the direct and indirect impacts of rising CO₂ levels on the Kākahi, the New Zealand Freshwater Mussel. This taonga (treasured) species has been affected both directly (e.g. pH changes) and indirectly (e.g. algae compositional changes) by rising CO₂ levels, and our work aims to shed light on what might be occurring at a molecular and phenotypic level in response to these challenges.

This work is part of an MBIE Endeavour programme (Safeguarding Te Mana o te Awa o Waikato from Emerging Climatic Pressures), and includes exciting opportunities to collaborate with world-leading scientists at research institutions across New Zealand, work alongside the kaitiaki (guardians) of this species, and gain sought-after skills.

The project will involve

·      Sampling Kākahi alongside hapori Māori and other scientists, contrasting their biology under differing environmental conditions

·      Performing comparisons of morphological features (using histological and imaging approaches)

·      Producing cutting-edge genomic and transcriptomic resources using tools such as long read gDNA and direct RNA sequencing

·      Investigating the cellular-level differences in key life stages/tissues, contrasting composition and gene expression with SPLiTseq-based single cell RNAseq

This project would suit a student with some existing research experience in fields such as genomic analysis, bioinformatics, or molecular biology, and an interest in fieldwork. The doctoral student will be enrolled at the University of Otago, but will work in close collaboration with scientists at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington (particularly Dr Chris Cornwall, who will co-supervise this work), Lincoln Agritech and NIWA (the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric research).

This position comes with a stipend ($28,600 NZ per annum), a tuition fee waiver, and will receive further support from the broader work programme, including dedicated networking and training opportunities. In particular, there will be opportunities to work alongside scientists and students studying freshwater algae in the same ecosystem, which will lead to exciting collaborative opportunities.

For more information please contact Nathan Kenny using the form below. To apply, we will ask for a CV, a few paragraphs stating your skillset, fit, and reason for interest in the position, and two academic referees.

International applicants with a strong academic and research record are eligible for funding under this scheme (although travel/visa costs are not covered) and are encouraged to apply.