An NSF-funded REU to study Y-chromosome diversity and sex-biased dispersal in wild brown rats (Rattus norvegicus) is available in the Munshi-South Lab at Fordham University. Our lab is currently investigating rat evolution at scales ranging from landscape genetics of individual cities to global patterns of diversity. Development of resources for investigating Y-chromosome diversity will support many of these studies. The REU student will work with the lab to bioinformatically identify Y-chromosome SNPs, design SNPtype assays, extract DNA, genotype samples, and analyze data.
We seek applicants interested in bioinformatics, evolutionary biology, and related disciplines. Applicants must have taken a college-level genetics course. This REU will require attention to detail, reliability, independence, and critical thinking.
This position is based at Fordham University's field station, the Louis Calder Center, in Armonk, NY. The Calder Center is located approximately 25 miles north of New York City in a protected woodland area. Housing will be provided at the Calder Center for the duration of the REU (May 23 to Aug 12, 2016). Additionally, the student will receive a $6,000 stipend. The selected student will participate in professional development activities through the Calder Centers REU program, including presentation of results at a research colloquium at the end of the summer.
To apply, please send a one page personal statement about your scientific interests and how this REU will support your professional goals, unofficial transcripts including a list of Spring 2016 courses, and names of two professional references (including title, address, phone number, and email address) as a single pdf (with your last name in the file name) to Dr. Jason Munshi-South (jmunshisouth@fordham.edu).