Dear all could you please advertise the PhD position below among your MSc and BSc students?
Many thanks and best regards Isabella ---- Fully funded NERC PhD studentship Predicting biological invasions: a phylogenetic approach Department of Biological Sciences University of Hull Supervisor: Dr. Isabella Capellini Co-Supervisors: Dr. Chris Venditti, Dr Darren Evans We are inviting applications for this NERC-funded PhD studentship to commence in October 2011. Aim of the project Non-native 'invasive' species are one of the major causes of the loss of native biodiversity, can alter ecosystem dynamics, and lead to considerable economic impacts. The strategies to cope with invasive species are often planned after the invader is well established and has colonized large areas; as a result the costs of eradication are high and often impractical. Preventing invasion is therefore the best strategy to avoid longterm environmental damage and economic costs. However, predicting potential invaders before they colonize habitats is at present a poorly resolved task. This project will systematically test what biological characteristics known invaders share across a range of phylogenetic lineages, from plants to vertebrates and invertebrates, using cuttingedge phylogenetic comparative methods. The project will provide (i) comprehensive answers to the key question of what biological traits successful invaders share and identify potential differences across lineages and ecosystems; (ii) a much needed screening tool for predicting the potential for successful invasion of species introduced in the UK; and (iii) fundamental information for assessing the invasive potential of species under different scenarios of climate change. Working at the cutting edge of ecology and evolutionary biology within the Department of Biological Sciences, the student will acquire cutting edge statistical methods, fundamental theoretical knowledge and critical thinking skills within a highly stimulating and lively research environment. The project will also address a key problem in conservation biology with potential applications for policy-makers and land managers. How to apply Entry requirement. A first degree (at least an Upper Second Class Honours or equivalent) in biology, ecology, conservation biology or related discipline. A Masters degree in a relevant discipline will be an advantage. ****Eligibility. Please refer to the NERC eligibility criteria**** http://www.nerc.ac.uk/funding/available/postgrad/eligibility.asp Application procedure. To apply a apply a CV, covering letter and names of 2 referees should be sent to Sarah Richards ([email protected]) by 6th June 2011. To apply a apply a CV, covering letter and names of 2 referees should be sent to Sarah Richards ([email protected]) by 6th June 2011. Informal enquiries to: Isabella Capellini ([email protected]). - -- Isabella Capellini, PhD Lecturer in Ecology *** NOTE CHANGE OF ADDRESS FROM 1st AUGUST 2011 *** Department of Biological Sciences University of Hull Cottingham Road, Kingston-upon-Hull HU6 7RX, UK -- Present address School of Biological Sciences Queen's University Belfast 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL (U. K.) Phone: +44 (0)28 9097 2181 Personal website: http://www.qub.ac.uk/bb/People/DrICapellini/ Evolutionary Architecture of Reproduction website & database: http://www.dur.ac.uk/reproductionproject/ Phylogeny of Sleep Database http://www.bu.edu/phylogeny/
