A position is available for a postdoctoral research associate to conduct research on tritrophic interactions in a natural system. The primary objective is to evaluate the costs and benefits of direct and indirect defenses against the herbivores of Datura wrightii in natural communities. The main direct defense is the glandular trichomes that are produced by some plants within most plant populations. Trichome phenotype is inherited as a Mendelian character. Indirect defenses include the induction of defensive proteins and the production of volatile organic compounds. The indirect defenses are expressed independently of trichome phenotype but vary among plant families. Potential areas of research include: 1) understanding the ecological and evolutionary significance of the variation in the production of volatile compounds and the responses of natural enemies to that variation, 2) understanding how variation in the structure of communities of herbivores and natural enemies may lead to variation in direct and indirect herbivore defenses among plant populations, and 3) determining the value of direct and indirect defenses of D. wrightii on plant fitness in the field. 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 of plant-insect and tritrophic interactions, the design and analysis of field experiments, 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 September 1, 2007 and continue until a suitable candidate is identified. The anticipated starting date is January 1, 2008 but is negotiable. The initial appointment will be for one year with continuation contingent upon satisfactory performance and the availability of funding. The salary will be commensurate with training and experience. Health insurance and other benefits are provided. To apply, send a curriculum vitae, relevant reprints or manuscripts in press, a description of your 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 are preferred. The University of California is an Affirmative Action / Equal Opportunity employer.
