PHD POSITION: CONSERVATION GENOMICS OF WRASSE FISH The Fish Evolutionary Ecology group at University College Cork, in collaboration with the Marine Institute, is offering a PhD position to work on the ecological genomics and conservation biology of wrasse in Ireland. Wrasse play a vital ecological role in coastal ecosystems and are exploited as cleaner fish in salmon aquaculture. Yet, knowledge gaps persist regarding their population structure, adaptive capacity, and genetic health—gaps that this project aims to fill using cutting-edge genomic tools. This four-year PhD project will deliver the first comprehensive genomic assessment of wrasse in Irish waters, addressing urgent conservation and management needs. The proposed focus is on Ballan wrasse (Labrus bergylta), a species that is declining in Ireland and for which both wild-caught and farm-reared individuals are increasingly used in aquaculture. There is scope to also look at other wrasse species such Corkwing or Goldsinny. The aim is to use a sequencing approach (e.g. lcWGS) to interrogate genome-wide patterns of neutral and adaptive genetic diversity within and across populations along the Irish coastline and ecological/anthropogenic drivers. The PhD student will join a vibrant and dynamic team of geneticists and ecologists working on fish and other taxa, with strong links to government agencies, industry, and NGOs. The student will spend time at both University College Cork (the School of Biological Earth and Environmental Science) and the Marine Institute (near Galway City). Both institutes are located close to medium to large size cities, on the doorstep of some of the most beautiful coastline in Europe. Candidates interested in this position should hold a minimum of a BSc, and ideally also an MSc, with a background in evolutionary biology or populations genetics/genomics, and have a strong interest in the application of genetics to conservation biology or fisheries management. Previous experience with data analysis, in particular bioinformatics, is essential. The project will be largely desk/lab based, but there are opportunities for fieldwork too. Prior experience with molecular lab work is a major plus. We are looking for someone with fluent English, good communication and writing skills, and ability to work in a team. The position is funded for 4 years and the preferred start date is 1 Oct 2026 (but a Jan 2027 start also possible). The primary supervisor will be Dr Tom Reed (UCC), and the secondary supervisor Dr Ilaria Coscia (Marine Institute). Please write to Dr Tom Reed (treed@ucc.ie) if you have further questions about the project or position. University College Cork is committed to equity and diversity and actively promotes equal opportunities. To apply for this position, please send a letter of motivation and CV, together with contact details of two references and your certificates as a single pdf ( <10 MB) to treed@ucc.ie with the subject "Application: Your Name [PhD Wrasse Genomics]". The deadline for applications is Sep 6, 2026, or until the position is filled. Interviews to be held shortly thereafter, online. Associate Prof. Dr Tom Reed University College Cork Evolutionary Ecology of Fish and other taxa DEPARTMENT: https://www.ucc.ie/en/bees/ SUPERVISORS: https://research.ucc.ie/en/persons/thomas-reed/ie.linkedin.com/in/ilaria-coscia-5136382a Thomas Reed Ilaria Coscia (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to evoldir@evoldir.net)