PhD project in Phylogenomic history, systematic status and conservation assessment of the endemic Irish hare

The proposed PhD will focus on the Irish hare (Lepus timidus hibernicus), one of Ireland’s most significant endemic species, with the aim of clarifying its taxonomic status, understand its population structure, and assess its current conservation status. The study will investigate whether the Irish hare should be considered a distinct species from the mountain hare (L. timidus). A determination in favour of species distinction could have substantial implications for conservation.

This study aims to clarify the systematic classification, population structure, local adaptation, distribution, and conservation status of the endemic Irish hare (Lepus timidus hibernicus):

1) Examination of the phylogenomic and systematic status of the mountain hare using an existing bank of tissue samples and high-resolution genome and mitogenome sequencing with comparative analysis between the Irish hare (L.t. hibernicus) and other mountain hare (L. timidus) subspecies.

2) Description of genomic population structure and change in effective population size through advanced genomics to assess genetic diversity and geographic patterns. Historical population sizes will be reconstructed, offering insight into demographic changes over the last few tens of thousands of years.

3) Characterisation of local adaptation and morphology by analysing skeletal morphology across mountain hare subspecies. Skull and mandible landmark-based shape and size analyses will assess adaptive differences in response to environmental variation between the habitat niches of different mountain hare subspecies.

4) Assessment of the distribution and population trends of the Irish hare in Northern Ireland by collating biological records for modelling site occupancy and abundance over recent decades.

5) Evaluation of the current conservation status of the Irish hare in Northern Ireland using camera trap survey Distance Sampling to estimate the current population size, along with a holistic assessment of distribution, range, threats and pressures and future prospects.

This comprehensive approach will advance understanding of the Irish hare’s genetic diversity, adaptation, and conservation status, informing statutory reporting responsibilities and management decisions.

Funding Information

Department for Economy funded covering academic fees and student stipend with matched funding from project partner, the National Museums of Northern Ireland covering consumables, expenses and travel.

Any offer made to the successful candidate will be subject to a signed contract (executed Studentship Agreement) between Queen’s University Belfast and the partner being in place.

Open to EU, UK, ROI and NI students only.

Entrance requirements

Graduate
The minimum academic requirement for admission to a research degree programme is normally an Upper Second Class Honours degree in a relevant subject from a UK or ROI HE provider, or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University. Further information can be obtained by contacting the School.

International Students

For information on international qualification equivalents, please check the specific information for your country.

English Language Requirements

Evidence of an IELTS* score of 6.5, with not less than 5.5 in any component, or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University is required (*taken within the last 2 years).

International students wishing to apply to Queen’s University Belfast (and for whom English is not their first language), must be able to demonstrate their proficiency in English in order to benefit fully from their course of study or research. Non-EEA nationals must also satisfy UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) immigration requirements for English language for visa purposes.

For more information on English Language requirements for EEA and non-EEA nationals see: www.qub.ac.uk/EnglishLanguageReqs.