Postdoc position in Phylogenetic analysis of gene transfer. Ref 14/3R/02.
http://www.warwick.ac.uk/jobs/job119.html
Mathematics Institute, University of Warwick.

A 1 year PDRA is available in the Mathematics Institute analysing
horizontal gene transfer in bacteria. Phylogenetic and statistical
methods will be used to analyse sequence data of a variety of genes
comparing their phylogenetic histories. In particular we will compare
antibiotic resistance genes with house keeping genes. Methodologies
which may be used (depending on the skills of the successful
applicant) include basic phylogenetic methods (MCMC, maximum
likelihood) and statistical pattern analysis of the sequences.
Experience in hypothesis testing within a maximum likelihood or
Bayesian context would be advisable, while familiarity with
mathematical genetics may also be helpful. Applicants should have a
PhD in a relevant subject.


Enquiries welcome: Dr Nigel Burroughs, [log in to unmask]
tel (+44) (0)2476524682. Also see http://www.maths.warwick.ac.uk/~njb,
http://www.warwick.ac.uk/jobs/job119.html.

The appointment is on the RA1A scale
Applications should include 1) a completed application form,
2) full academic CV and 3) a letter outlining relevant experience and
interests. Closing date 9th December. Interviews will take place
early Jan 03. Start date Mar-Sep 03.


Further particulars: Phylogenetic analysis of gene transfer.

Gene flow and its estimation is an area of increasing importance given
the rise in antibiotic resistance to many antibiotics and concerns
over gene pollution by GMOs. The aim of the project is to study gene
flow in a well characterised soil bacterium concentrating on genes
related to antibiotic synthesis and their associated resistance genes.
These genes are acknowledged candidates of horizontal gene transfer.
Such genes should therefore have distinct histories relative to the
rest of the genome. Phylogenetic methods will be used to analyse gene
histories and 1) verify that gene histories are distinct thereby
detecting horizontal gene transfer, and 2) quantify the rate of gene
transfer and the age of such events. The project may involve analysis
of tree topology to develop measures of distance between trees. Whole
genome analysis may also be used to analyse signatures of transfered
genes (eg high/low GC content).

An understanding of phylogenetic methods and the relevant
statistics/probability would be advantageous, while experience with
either maximum likelihood or MCMC methodology, particularly in
a tree or phylogeny context would be helpful. Programming and
modification of software may be required.


The project is multidisciplinary with extensive interactions with the
Warwick microbiology group. The PDRA will be based in the Mathematics
Institute within a group consisting of 4 permanent members of staff
and 5 postdocs (see http://www.maths.warwick.ac.uk/~njb/group.html).


Enquiries welcome: Dr Nigel Burroughs, [log in to unmask] tel (+44)
(0)2476524682. Also see http://www.maths.warwick.ac.uk/~njb.

Applications should include 1) a completed application form,
2) full academic CV and 3) a letter outlining relevant experience and
interests. Closing date 9th December. Interviews will take place
early Jan 03. Start date Oct 03, but flexible. Job ref 14/3R/02.


___________________________________________________

Dr Nigel Burroughs,
Mathematics Institute,
University of Warwick,
Coventry CV4 7AL. UK.

Tel: 024 76 524682.
Fax: 024 76 524182.
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Web pages:
Home page http://www.maths.warwick.ac.uk/~njb/
Group page http://www.maths.warwick.ac.uk/~njb/group.html
Mathematics in Medicine Initiative page http://www.mimi.warwick.ac.uk/
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