ACCE+ DLA programme: Adapting to Change: Integrating Climate Projections and Genomic Tools to Future-Proof Fisheries Management

Excited about transforming how food resources are managed under rapidly shifting climate change? Are you eager to learn cutting-edge techniques to make a real-world change to food sustainability and conservation? Apply for this PhD to innovate novel tools for predicting fish population responses to climate change and tackle urgent challenges in marine conservation and fisheries.

Climate change is reshaping our oceans, affecting fish distribution crucial for global food security. This project aims to improve upon traditional models by incorporating fish populations' adaptive potential, using advanced omics and data science techniques with climate projections to better understand UK commercial fish stocks' responses to environmental change.

As a PhD candidate, you will work at the intersection of genomics, climate science, data science, conservation, and fisheries management. Collaborating with the governmental arm of marine and freshwater science, CEFAS (Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science), your research will directly contribute to developing innovative tools for sustainable marine resource management.

This project aims to transform UK fisheries management by projecting climate change impacts on fish populations with an assessment of adaptive potential by:

1.     Discovering climate-adaptive genes/loci in commercial UK fish species using population genetics.

2.     Mapping future ocean conditions using climate models.

3.     Developing genomic offset models to predict fish population adaptability.

4.     Validating projections and determining fish adaptations using statistical mapping of multi-omics and life history data.

5.     Developing user-friendly tools for fisheries managers and policymakers to interpret ‘winners and losers’ of climate change.

Training and Research Environment

You will join a dynamic and supportive team of experts in genomics, evolutionary biology, climate science, and fisheries management.

This project offers training in cutting-edge omics, bioinformatics, and data science, with access to advanced sequencing data and computing resources to develop tools with real-world applications in conservation biology.

Regular team meetings, seminars, and collaborative partnerships will enhance your professional development. You will also present your work at international conferences and contribute to high-impact publications.

We are committed to fostering an inclusive research environment that values diversity and promotes equity. We encourage applications from all backgrounds.

The student will work with an experienced team at University of Liverpool, with ~3 months at CEFAS, Lowestoft/Norwich:

-         Dr Tarang Mehta: Lecturer supervising research focused on characterising the genetic underpinnings of complex traits.

-         Dr Stewart Plaistow: Senior lecturer in Evolutionary biology guiding research focused on causes and consequences of rapid adaptation in natural populations.

-         Dr Louise Rutterford: Senior Climate Change Scientist at CEFAS undertaking research modelling the projected impacts of climate change on marine species.

-         Dr David Murray: Senior Fisheries scientist managing a Fisheries Genomics team at CEFAS and member of genomic Working Groups at the International Council for Exploration of the Sea (ICES).

-         Dr Adam Ciezarek: Fisheries scientist at CEFAS utilising bioinformatics and genomics to understand population structure and diversity in commercial marine fish.

Applicant suitability

We are looking for enthusiastic individuals with a strong background in biology, genetics, bioinformatics, or a related field. Experience in programming (e.g., R, Python) and data analysis is desirable. Most importantly, we seek candidates who are curious, creative, and passionate about conservation genomics.

This project offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on fisheries management and marine conservation. Your work will contribute to climate-resilient strategies for managing UK fish stocks and beyond.

How to Apply

Please see the ACCE website for all details of how to apply to the programme at each ACCE+ institution: https://accedtp.ac.uk/how-to-apply/. 

All applicants to ACCE+ must complete the ACCE+ personal statement proforma. This is instead of a personal/supporting statement or cover letter. The proforma is designed to standardise this part of the application to minimise the difference between those who are given support and those who are not. Candidates should also submit a CV and the contact details of two referees.

Part-Time Study Options

All ACCE+ PhDs are available as part time or full time, with part time being a minimum of 50% of full time. Please discuss potential part time arrangements with the primary supervisor before applying to the programme. 

Project CASE Status

This project is a CASE project. Your project will be co-supervised by the non-academic partner organisation, and you will spend 3-6 months on a placement with your CASE partner in their workplace. You will experience training, facilities and expertise not available in an academic setting, and will build business and research collaborations.

Candidate webinar

The project primary supervisor will hold a candidate Zoom webinar in December 2024 to discuss the project with interested candidates. Please register here if you would like to join!