Population genomics of colonizing tropical trees in newly assembled plant communities resulting from animal seed dispersal

• Grant number: 25/05459-9
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral
• Start date: June 01, 2025
• End date: May 31, 2027
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Genetics - Plant Genetics
• Principal Investigator: Marina Corrêa Côrtes
• Grantee: Paula Oliveira Camargo
• Host Institution: Instituto de Biociências (IB). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Rio Claro. Rio Claro , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 21/02943-6 - Dimensions US-São Paulo: animal biases in fruit selection and seed dispersal as drivers of biotic filters in the assembly of successional forests and their carbon capture potential, AP.BTA.TEM

Abstract

Frugivory and seed dispersal play a critical role in shaping plant community assembly and genetic diversity in regenerating tropical forests. This project aims to evaluate how these processes influence seedling diversity, fitness, and genetic composition in newly assembled plant communities. Specifically, the postdoctoral researcher will analyze transcriptomic data, develop polymorphic genetic markers, and assess the genetic diversity of dispersed seeds across experimental forest patches. The large-scale field experiment, spanning 10 sites, includes patches within forests and 23 experimental patches adjacent to the forests with distinct pioneer tree compositions, categorized by fruit nutrient traits (lipid- or sugar-rich) and phylogenetic distance. By examining bird visitation, seed rain composition, and seedling performance, we aim to identify mechanisms driving biodiversity organization. A subset of focal species will be studied to assess genetic differentiation across sites and its association with dispersal patterns and functional diversity. The postdoc will oversee the generation and analysis of transcriptomic resources, develop genetic markers for population studies, and evaluate the influence of seed dispersal processes on genetic structure. Leaf tissue samples will undergo RNA/DNA extraction for sequencing, with potential adjustments based on sample availability and logistical constraints. Genetic composition will be analyzed using genetic diversity and partitioning parameters, modeling its relationship with geographic distance, phylogenetic composition, and functional diversity of forest patches. Additionally, the postdoc will mentor students, manage lab operations, curate genetic data, and contribute to manuscript preparation and outreach efforts. This role offers opportunities for specialized training in bioinformatics and statistical analysis, as well as an international research exchange. Based at UNESP Rio Claro, the postdoc will collaborate closely with the Co-PI Côrtes' research group and Co-PI Marden at Penn State University.