The Bio-Protection Research Centre, Lincoln University, New Zealand is offering
a three-year PhD
scholarship to determine the role of fungal symbionts in facilitating and
limiting plant invasions,
particularly of Eucalyptus. Around 240 species of Eucalyptus are present in New
Zealand, of which
only four are invasive. It has been suggested that some non-invasive Eucalyptus
have the potential to
become much more invasive, but are limited by a lack of compatible
ectomycorrhizal fungi. This
raises the potential that currently non-invasive species of Eucalyptus could
become more invasive
depending on changes in fungal symbiotic interactions ("sleeper weeds"). The
aim of this project is to
understand fungal community and plant-trait mechanisms that have resulted in
some Eucalyptus
species becoming invasive while other Eucalyptus species have failed to
naturalize. The scholarship
provides an annual stipend of $25 000 NZD tax free, plus operating expenses and
University fees,
with a duration of three years.
Applicants for this project should hold a first class or high 2A honours degree
or a relevant MS
degree, an interest in plant and fungal ecology, and experience working with
molecular techniques.
Applicants must be able to conduct independent field-based research, including
having a valid drivers
license, and must be eligible for admission to the PhD program at Lincoln
University. Applications
should include evidence of qualifications and research experience, together
with a curriculum vitae
and contact details of two academic referees. Applications should be supported
by a cover letter that
states why the candidate is interested in the post and how their qualifications
would map onto the
proposed research.
Supervisors: Dr. Ian Dickie, Professor of Invasion Ecology
(bioprotection.org.nz/users/ian-dickie); Dr.
Philip Hulme, Professor and Chair in Plant Biosecurity
(bioprotection.org.nz/users/philip-e-hulme).
Review of applications starting 11 November, 2013; Commencement date: January
2014 or soon
after.
More Information at:
http://bioprotection.org.nz/vacancy/phd-scholarship-invasion-ecology
For further information about this project, or to submit an application, email:
Professor Ian Dickie, Bio-Protection Research Centre: [email protected]
