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PhD project in systematic ichthyology

Taxonomy, systematics, and evolution of labrid fishes

Institution: University of Sydney & Australian Museum Research Institute
Location: Sydney, NSW Australia
Start date: July 2025 or February 2026
Supervisors: Professor Simon Ho (University of Sydney) & Dr Yi-Kai Tea (Australian Museum)

Project details

This PhD project will investigate the systematics and evolutionary histories of the wrasses (Labridae), one of the most successful and evolutionary distinct radiations of marine teleost fishes. The family is the second-largest marine fish family and attains its highest diversity on coral reefs, particularly in the tropical Indo-Pacific region. The project will combine molecular and morphological approaches, with a strong focus in taxonomy, phylogenetics, molecular evolution, and historical biogeography. Several genera of labrid fishes are in need of critical taxonomic scrutiny, in particular Macropharyngodon, Halichoeres, and Coris. Together, these genera account for more than half the total species diversity in the family, yet their relationships and classification remain unresolved. The PhD candidate is expected to undertake systematic studies for select labrid groups, infer their phylogenetic relationships, and propose the necessary taxonomic changes.

Key aspects of the project

  • Phylogenomic and systematic revisions using an integrative approach based on molecular and morphological data
  • Generation and analysis of genomic datasets through high-throughput sequencing and bioinformatics tools
  • Interpretation of morphological data by examining specimens (meristics and morphometrics), as well as use of X-ray and microCT-scanning facilities (osteological data)
  • Genome sequencing and genome-wide association studies to investigate adaptive radiation and speciation
  • Alpha and beta taxonomy, including identification, description, classification, and naming of potential new species

Requirements

  • Applicants must hold an Honours or Master’s degree in ichthyology, evolutionary biology, molecular ecology, or a related field
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills

Desired qualifications

  • Strong background in molecular techniques, including DNA sequencing, bioinformatics, and molecular evolution
  • Experience with species delimitation and phylogenetic methods
  • Strong interest in taxonomy, systematics, and evolution with coral reef fishes as a model study group
  • A collaborative, interdisciplinary mindset and drive for scientific discovery

Research environment

The PhD student will be based in the Molecular Ecology, Evolution, and Phylogenetics (MEEP) Lab at the University of Sydney, and the Australian Museum Research Institute’s (AMRI) ichthyology collection. The MEEP Lab is jointly led by Professor Simon Ho and Professor Nathan Lo, and comprises about 15 researchers, including postdoctoral staff, research assistants, and research students. The AMRI ichthyology collection is led by Dr Yi-Kai Tea and, in addition to having a team of full-time collections staff, hosts a number of research associates, research fellows, and visiting graduate students. Beyond the MEEP Lab and AMRI ichthyology collection, you will have opportunities to interact with students from other research groups at the University of Sydney and AMRI, as well as present at regional and international conferences in both ichthyology and molecular ecology. Opportunities for fieldwork are available, though this is not a mandatory requirement for the applicant.

Expressions of interest

To express interest in this research project, please contact Professor Simon Ho (simon.ho@sydney.edu.au) and Dr Yi-Kai Tea (Yi-Kai.Tea@Australian.Museum) with a CV and a brief statement of research interests and experience. Candidates will be expected to apply for a Research Training Program scholarship, with upcoming deadlines of 5 May 2025 (domestic students commencing in July 2025) and 12 September 2025 (international students commencing in February 2026).