Brunel University London invites applications for a 4-year funded PhD position investigating the effects of environmental pollution on Molluscan endocrinology.

Molluscs make up a large and diverse phylum, second only to Arthropoda in the number of species. They show an incredible variety of size, shape, behaviour, life history and habitat and are vital components of most aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems.

Pollution from agriculture, industry and households can pose a significant threat to mollusc populations. Molluscs are known to be sensitive to endocrine-disrupting pollution. However, surprisingly, compared to other groups of animals, there are many unknowns and misconceptions about the underlying hormonal systems which control molluscan development, growth and reproduction. Without this understanding, chemicals may continue to enter the environment and harm mollusc populations.

Research on molluscan endocrinology (e.g., using molecular grounding) to inform possible mechanisms, endpoints, and biomarkers for inclusion in chemicals regulatory testing guidelines is urgently required. This PhD project will combine computational toxicology and bioinformatic approaches, with molecular/omics, and in vivo assessments, to address critical gaps in endocrinology processes of Molluscs.

The position is funded by The London NERC Doctoral Training Partnership.

Please see full details of eligibility and how to apply in the official job posting, and contact Dr. Alice Baynes with questions. The application deadline is on August 7th, and the position starts in September 2020.