A position is available for a postdoctoral research associate to conduct research on tritrophic interactions from an insect community perspective. The primary objective is to test the working hypothesis that the indirect effects of the glandular trichomes of Datura wrightii on the natural enemies of D. wrightiis herbivores oppose the direct effects of the trichomes on those herbivores. These indirect effects may constrain the increase in the frequency of plants with glandular trichomes in natural populations. The successful candidate will study the community of herbivores and their natural enemies on plants with glandular and nonglandular trichomes at several nearby field locations and quantify the effect of those herbivores and natural enemies on plant fitness. The successful candidate will participate in planned experiments and will be expected to develop related, independent projects within the Datura system. A list of previous publications on Datura can be found at http://faculty.ucr.edu/~harejd/.
Applicants must have a PhD. degree before hiring in a relevant discipline, and research experience and knowledge in insect community ecology, the design and analysis of field experiments, insect identification and a genuine interest in the evolution of tritrophic interactions. Excellent oral and verbal communication skills are also required. The review of applications will begin December 15, 2006 and continue until a suitable candidate is identified. The starting date is negotiable but must be before March 15, 2007. The initial appointment will be for one year with continuation through December, 2008 contingent upon satisfactory performance. The starting salary will be $32,304 per year. Health insurance and other benefits are provided. To apply, send a curriculum vitae, relevant reprints or manuscripts in press, a description of research interests within the Datura system, and the names and e-mail and postal addresses of three references to: Dr. J. Daniel Hare Department of Entomology University of California Riverside, CA 92521 [EMAIL PROTECTED] On-line applications also will be accepted. The University of California is an Affirmative Action / Equal Opportunity employer.
