Mobile genetic elements in the gut microbiome of human populations
 

Advisor: Alexander Tyakht

PhD Program: International Max Planck Research School (IMPRS) 'From Molecules to Organisms'
Location: Max Planck Institute for Biology 

Project description
While the taxonomic structure of gut microbiome in the world human populations has been outlined, its subspecies-level genomic richness in the context of co-evolution with the host, particularly the variability of its extrachromosomal content, is still to be elucidated. In this project, using the state-of-art bionformatic pipelines and algorithms, you will outline the diversity of mobile genetic elements (plasmids, phages), identify their associations with bacterial hosts using chromosome conformation capture (Hi-C metagenomics) and compare these findings with the host characteristics ranging from genetics to geography.

More information about the research of Alexander Tyakht and a selection of recent publications can be found on his faculty page.

To apply

• check that you meet our requirements 
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Application deadline: 8 February 2023