Research Supervisor Connect

Genomic selection in the black tiger prawn (University of Sydney)

Summary

Future breeding programs for the black tiger prawn (Penaeus monodon) will require integration of genomic data to improve the efficiency of selection. The Holy Grail is to make selection decisions largely on determining a genomic-based breeding value (gEBV) or using an approach termed genomic selection. Breeding programs integrating genomic selection to improve P. monodon genetics will require breeding designs to be optimised and the best algorithms to predict genetic performance to be determined.  The project will involve modelling various genomic selection scenarios using simulated and real datasets, along with formulation of an economic breeding objective for the black tiger prawn. 

Supervisors

Dr Mehar Singh Khatkar, Associate Professor Peter Campbell Thomson.

Research location

Sydney School of Veterinary Science

Program type

PHD

Synopsis

The desired candidate will preferably have a good background in statistics and/or quantitative genetics, animal production and computational analyses. 

Additional information

A full time APA Industry scholarship ($A 31,296 p.a.) will be available for the first three years. A candidate who has already secured an APA/UPA, IPRS, or other equivalent scholarship, will be eligible for a top-up scholarship of $A 8000 p.a. for a period of first three years. In addition, support for travel for two national and one international conference will be provided with the scholarship. It is open to Australian applicants. International students are welcome to apply but may be subjected to international tuition fees which are not covered by this scholarship. For more information on what the ARC Research Hub for Advanced Prawn Breeding will achieve and partners please visit https://research.jcu.edu.au/itrh-apb
The University of Sydney Contacts:
Dr Mehar Khatkar (mehar.khatkar@sydney.edu.au)
A/Prof Peter Thomson (peter.thomson@sydney.edu.au)

HDR Inherent Requirements

In addition to the academic requirements set out in the Science Postgraduate Handbook, you may be required to satisfy a number of inherent requirements to complete this degree. Example of inherent requirement may include:

- Confidential disclosure and registration of a disability that may hinder your performance in your degree;
- Confidential disclosure of a pre-existing or current medical condition that may hinder your performance in your degree (e.g. heart disease, pace-maker, significant immune suppression, diabetes, vertigo, etc.);
- Ability to perform independently and/or with minimal supervision;
- Ability to undertake certain physical tasks (e.g. heavy lifting);
- Ability to undertake observatory, sensory and communication tasks;
- Ability to spend time at remote sites (e.g. One Tree Island, Narrabri and Camden);
- Ability to work in confined spaces or at heights;
- Ability to operate heavy machinery (e.g. farming equipment);
- Hold or acquire an Australian driver’s licence;
- Hold a current scuba diving license;
- Hold a current Working with Children Check;
- Meet initial and ongoing immunisation requirements (e.g. Q-Fever, Vaccinia virus, Hepatitis, etc.)

You must consult with your nominated supervisor regarding any identified inherent requirements before completing your application.

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Opportunity ID

The opportunity ID for this research opportunity is 1993

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