The Gibson lab in the Department of Biology at Georgia Southern University (GSU) is looking for a MS student in insect evolutionary genetics to begin Fall 2018. The research focus of the lab is on the genetic/genomic basis of traits in Hymenopteran insects, particularly metabolic and mitochondrial physiology. Current projects/systems in the lab include (1) speciation and evolutionary genetics in Nasonia parasitoid wasps (2) behavioral genetics in honey bees (Apis mellifera), and (3) studies investigating the invasive Argentine ant (Linepithema humile). Students are welcome to join existing projects, but are also encouraged to develop their own questions within the scope of the lab.
Student support will primarily be in the form of teaching assistantships, but partial support through research assistantships and summer supplementation are also available. In addition, there are competitive fellowships available through the Department and the College of Science and Mathematics. All students are expected to apply for external funding as well.
GSU is a 27,000-student comprehensive research university with three campuses in southeast Georgia (http://www.georgiasouthern.edu/). The Department of Biology at the Statesboro campus has many resources available to students, including a new LEED certified research and teaching building, many possibilities for collaboration with our >40 faculty as well as outside the department, and facilities for insect rearing, high throughput sequencing preparation, and microscopy.
Prospective students should have (1) a BS degree in the life sciences, such as Biology, Entomology, Genetics, Ecology & Evolution, or a related field. (2) excellent communication skills, both oral and written, and (3) the ability to work both independently and with a team. Preferred, but not required, qualifications include (1) experience conducting laboratory research, particularly in molecular biology (2) analytical skills such as bioinformatics and/or statistics, and (3) demonstrated scientific communication skills such as scientific publications or presentations, or a thesis project.
Students should ensure they meet the academic requirements of the graduate program at Georgia Southern University (see links below). To apply, contact Dr. Josh Gibson at jgibson@georgiasouthern.edu with a single PDF file that includes (1) a statement of research interests and experience (2) a CV or resume (3) GRE scores if available and (4) names and contact information for 2 academic or professional references.
The application deadline is April 1, 2018.
Graduate Program
Department of Biology