Microbes and viruses associated with sharks

Project description

Sharks and rays are the oldest extant vertebrates in the marine environment and make good model organisms to explore host associated microbes and viruses. We are investigating the microbes and viruses that are associated with a range of sharks, including white sharks, whale sharks, tiger sharks, dusky sharks, and southern eagle rays. There are several projects could explore, including 1) describing the microbial characteristics on each shark species, 2) comparing microbial collection methods from swabs to paper swipes, or 3) linking the microbial community with a characteristic of the shark, such as sex, length, heavy metal content, or mucus metabolites.

Assumed knowledge

Basic marine biology and microbiology understanding would be useful.

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You must also contact each supervisor directly to discuss both the project details and your suitability to undertake the project.