Objectif
Understanding how genes and the environment affect animal fitness is a central challenge in current evolutionary biology. Therefore, I propose a study to identify genes with strong effects on fitness in a wild bird population. To achieve this, I will make use of the unique opportunity offered by a study species with strong fitness differences between genetically distinct morphs and a recently developed sequencing technique which is the first to make such a study feasible.
Restriction site associated DNA (RAD)-tags allow scanning previously unsequenced genomes and are expected to yield several thousand single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the genome of the study species, the Common Buzzard Buteo buteo. This medium-sized raptor occurs in three colour morphs, which have been shown to differ in lifetime reproductive success in a 22-year study. Blood samples and phenotypic measurements have been collected from >1200 chicks over a nine-year period. Morph, reproductive success, survival, and other fitness-related traits such as body condition, fledgling date, and parasite infestation will be tested for association with individual alleles and genetic variability to identify genetic regions in disequilibrium with fitness-relevant genes. To identify candidate genes, marker regions will be searched for known genes, using the chicken genome as a reference.
In addition, the genetic basis for a first phenotypic candidate trait, immunity, will be tested. MHC class II genes will be sequenced by using a new approach based on 454 sequencing with carefully controlled accuracy tests. Individual alleles and variability will be tested for correlations with parasite infestation, recruitment and other fitness-related traits.
In the course of this study, I will acquire state-of-the-art, highly versatile molecular techniques and be able to improve complementary skills required to lead my own research group.
Champ scientifique
Appel à propositions
FP7-PEOPLE-2010-IOF
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Régime de financement
MC-IOF - International Outgoing Fellowships (IOF)Coordinateur
33615 Bielefeld
Allemagne