Integrating a multi-omics approach towards genetic biocontrol strategies for invasive wasps

Overview

The world’s highest density of social wasps can be found in New Zealand’s National Parks. These invasive species have flourished due to a lack of natural predators and abundant resources, to the point where they have expanded throughout the country. Current control methods require chemical baiting, which is labour intensive and puts non-specific synthetic insecticides into the environment.

This PhD will explore whether genetic technologies can provide a better solution. Gene drives offer a potential solution in targeted and sustainable pest management of invasive wasps. This project relies on knowledge and skills in molecular genetics, genome engineering, insect biology and bioinformatics to design and develop methods for understanding whether gene drives could be appropriate in managing one of New Zealand’s most significant invasive species issues.

This is an opportunity to work on an interdisciplinary project addressing whether genetic technologies can be used to create a more targeted approach to invasive species management. The project will have a strong experimental component, including insect husbandry, molecular biology, genetic engineering and phenotypic analysis. You will also use genomic and bioinformatic approaches to identify and evaluate genetic targets and understand how genetic variation may influence gene drive systems.

Training will be provided, and the project is designed to develop expertise across both wet-lab and computational biology.

• Developing genetic tools for non-model insect species
• Designing and testing gene drive components
• Rearing and experimentally manipulating wasps
• Molecular cloning, PCR, sequencing and gene expression analysis
• Genome and population-genetic analysis
• RNA-seq and spatial transcriptomics
• Measurement of inheritance, fitness and stability of engineered traits

You will gain hands-on experience in molecular genetics, genome engineering, insect biology and bioinformatics, while contributing to a research programme with potential applications in conservation and biosecurity.

This project will best suit a student with a background in molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, microbiology, biotechnology, bioinformatics or a related field. A first class BSc(Hons) or MSc with distinction, including a substantial research component or research experience equivalent. Enthusiasm for learning new experimental and computational techniques and having good problem-solving, communication and teamwork skills is essential. We create a working environment that fosters collaborative work and encourages creativity in tackling challenging research questions.

Applicants should be eligible for admission to the University of Otago PhD programme and are expected to apply for a University of Otago Doctoral Scholarship.

University of Otago Doctoral Scholarships

All applications should include a CV, academic transcripts and a cover letter explaining your interest in the project, and details of two academic referees in a single PDF.

International applicants: please contact the lab before applying with your CV and academic transcripts so that we can assess suitability and discuss scholarship opportunities. International candidates must reside in New Zealand for the duration of the project and study under an appropriate New Zealand student visa.

Contact the Dearden Lab to discuss the project and whether it could be a good fit for you.

Useful information

• Graduate research at the University of Otago
• Scholarships at the University of Otago