On behalf of Nadir Erbilgin: I am seeking one outstanding PhD student in chemical ecology at the University of Alberta,
Edmonton. Current research in my lab explores questions of broad relevance to invasion biology of forest insects in novel environments, emphasizing ecological functions of plant secondary compounds and evolution of insect-plant interactions in explaining herbivore host plant shifts. By doing so, my group integrates multiple disciplines, such as ecology, entomology, pathology, and chemical ecology to characterize interactions among multiple organisms such as trees, insects, and phytopathogens, and determine effects of the environment such as nutrients and water on the tripartite interactions. I currently supervise two PhD and two MSc students and co-supervise one MSc and one PhD students. The PhD candidate will investigate several aspects of the chemical defenses of jack pine against the invasive mountain pine beetle in Canada. Jack pine is considered a ‘novel’ host in terms of encounters with the mountain pine beetle. In particular the student will investigate how host secondary compounds, including terpenoids, phenolics and alkaloids, (volatile as well as non-volatile chemicals) affect host selection, colonization and establishment of beetle under different growing conditions. Trade-offs between defense chemicals (i.e., terpenoids vs. phenolics) as well as relationship between defense chemicals and non-structural carbohydrates will be investigated. Depending on the interest and quality of the applicant, the project offers considerable flexibility in designing a research program that investigates areas of personal interest within the overall framework of the project. Background in ecology, chemical ecology, entomology, or a related field is required, as is an interest in the linkages between plants and insects. Experience with any of the following will be an asset, but is not required: GC/MS, LC/MS, plant-insect interactions, and forest ecology. Proficiency in spoken and written English is a necessity. Selection of a student will be based on academic achievements, reference letters and previous research experience. Strong verbal, written, and computational skills are essential. Tuition and fees and a standard Graduate Assistantship can be offered. Students are also eligible for Tri-Council graduate scholarships (e.g. NSERC) in their first year. The position is available starting January 2014. The applicant must meet the entrance requirement for The University of Alberta, Department of Renewable Resources, which can be viewed at: http://www.rr.ualberta.ca/GraduateProgram/PhDProgram.aspx Interested candidates should email (1) their transcript (just MSc), (2) curriculum vitae, (3) a letter describing their research experience and interests (2-page limit), (4) recent TOEFL scores (if appropriate), and (5) the names and contact information of three referees to Dr. Nadir Erbilgin, Department of Renewable Resources, 4-42 Earth Science Building, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2E3, CANADA. Phone: (780)-492-8693; Fax: (780)-492-1767. Additional information can be obtained via email or phone call. *Email: ** [email protected]**.* Additional Information: Department of Renewable Resources – * http://www.rr.ualberta.ca/*
