Project Description
Neuropeptides are short signaling molecules that regulate diverse physiological processes in animals, from development and metabolism to reproduction and behavior. In some animal lineages, certain neuropeptides have been recruited into venom, where they act as potent toxins. Myriapods (centipedes and millipedes) are a highly diverse and understudied group of arthropods, and recent genomic resources now make it possible to explore their neuropeptide systems in detail. This project aims to characterize the neuropeptide complement of Myriapoda and investigate how many of these have been co-opted as venom components. The findings will help shed light on the molecular evolution of venom and the repeated use of endogenous signaling systems in animal weaponry.
What You Will Do
- Identify neuropeptide genes across myriapod transcriptomes and genomes using bioinformatic tools
- Classify neuropeptides into known families and compare their sequences across species
- Analyze expression patterns to determine which neuropeptides are enriched in venom glands
- Use phylogenetic analysis and gene structure comparisons to study the evolutionary origin of venom-related peptides
- Contribute to a growing understanding of how core physiological molecules are repeatedly adapted for use as toxins
Who Should Apply
This project is suitable for Master's students in bioinformatics, evolutionary biology, molecular biology, or related fields. Applicants should be curious about animal evolution and molecular innovation. Basic experience with bioinformatics is helpful but not required — training will be provided. The project is ideal for students interested in combining evolutionary theory with hands-on computational biology.
For more information, contact e.a.b.undheim@ibv.uio.no