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MS/PhD in phenotypic plasticity and eco-evo-devo
MS/PhD in phenotypic plasticity and eco-evo-devoThe University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center • Fayetteville, AR, US
MS / PhD in phenotypic plasticity and eco-evo-devo

MS / PhD in phenotypic plasticity and eco-evo-devo

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center • Fayetteville, AR, US
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Overview

Job Title : MS / PhD in phenotypic plasticity and eco-evo-devo

Job Number : 106751

Location : Fayetteville, AR, US

The Levis lab at the University of Arkansas is seeking MS / PhD students to study phenotypic plasticity and eco-evo-devo.

The lab's work broadly stems from the central premise that phenotypes are not wrought by genes alone. The ultimate source of phenotypic variation is developmental innovation, which depends on genetic and environmental factors. Nowhere is this point more apparent than by the widespread existence of a phenomenon known as phenotypic plasticity, which is the ability of organisms to produce multiple phenotypes in response to environmental variation. Our research strives to understand how genes and environment influence phenotype production within and between generations by investigating the developmental, ecological, and evolutionary causes and consequences of phenotypic plasticity.

As a model for understanding plasticity evolution more generally, the Levis lab uses species of spadefoot toad and shark-tooth nematode that exhibit an extreme form of plasticity (resource polyphenism) that is characterized by development of alternative morphs that utilize different diets. Although we are broadly interested in plasticity, some of our current foci include

  • Uncovering plasticity's molecular bases in a complex natural system,
  • determining how constraints on plasticity affect its evolution, and
  • clarifying how nongenetic inheritance influences the evolution of plasticity.

These topics are addressed using a variety of approaches ranging from experimental evolution and microcosm competition to functional genetics and transcriptomics.

Responsibilities and Qualifications

Required Qualifications :

  • B.S. in evolutionary biology, genetics, ecology, zoology, or related field
  • A strong work ethic, drive, and motivation to succeed
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Experience in basic laboratory techniques, good organizational skills, and attention to detail
  • Ability to work independently and as a productive member of a research team

    • Preferred Qualifications (not required, but a plus) :

  • Experience programming in R and using bioinformatics tools
  • Background or interest in amphibian or nematode evolutionary genetics / genomics
  • Experience with amphibian or nematode husbandry
  • Experience in a wet lab environment, especially molecular / development biology techniques

    • Application Information

    Interested students should visit the lab website and contact Dr. Nicholas Levis with a :

  • CV
  • description of research interests emphasizing alignment with the lab's focus
  • any relevant transcripts and test scores (e.g., GRE, TOEFL / IELTS)

    • Application Information :

  • Department of Biological Sciences Graduate Program
  • Cell and Molecular Biology Program
  • Graduate School Admissions
  • Doctoral Fellowships at UA

    • About the University & Region :

    The University of Arkansas (R1, land-grant, founded in 1871) is located in Fayetteville, a safe, welcoming community with a low cost of living and consistently ranked among the best places to live in the U.S. Surrounded by Fortune 500 companies, a vibrant arts scene, and stunning natural beauty, Fayetteville offers both strong professional opportunities and a high quality of life.

    Nickolas Levis, PhD

    Assistant Professor of Evolutionary Biology

    Department of Biological Sciences

    University of Arkansas

    Fayetteville, AR 72701

    Website : Please click the Apply button for the link or email.

    Application Deadline : 2026-03-28

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    In And • Fayetteville, AR, US