*Ph. D. position* * effect of stink bug invasion on behavioral and chemical ecology of local egg parasitoids*
* *Prof. Stefano Colazza, Dept. of Agricultural and Forest Sciences, University of Palermo* *Position availability: * October 1, 2016. *Support: *three years of support are available from the university of Palermo, Italy *Position Summary*: Insects can be accidentally introduced into non-native ecosystems by humans, or expand their geographical range toward the poles as a consequence of global warming. As they invade new environments, exotic species interact with local species, modifying the structure of local food webs. New associations arising from with biological invasions can impact the strength of existing links with effects cascading through trophic levels. When invasive species are herbivores that can attack economically important crops, they can cause serious economic losses. For example, recent invasion of the brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB) (Halyomorpha halys) in Europe and has the potential to interfere with local trophic webs and poses a serious threat to several agro-ecosystems. In this PhD project, the candidate will adopt a multidisciplinary approach to study the ecological consequences of BMSB invasions. In particular, we will focus on the effect of alien herbivore invasion on local natural enemies. Specific research strands will focus on: 1) the impact of exotic herbivores on infochemical communication between plants, herbivores and natural enemies; 2) Learned responses of parasitoids to infochemical evolutionary traps in a climate change context; 3) Contest behaviour of local egg parasitoids for possession of co-evolved and non-coevolved hosts; 4) Patch time allocation of local egg parasitoids after alien herbivore invasion: behavioural and modelling approaches. *Requirements:* A Bachelor's or Master's degree in entomology, biology, behavior, chemical ecology, or related field. Excellent written and oral communication skills. Potential candidates will be contacted for skype Interviews directly by prof. Stefano Colazza /Interest Inquiries/ Email the following: 1) statement of interest in the position and major research interests, 2) CV, 3) unofficial transcripts directly to [email protected]. by 1 August 2015. APPLICATION RECEIVED AFTER THIS DATE WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED For further information send an e-mail to [email protected] -- Prof. Stefano Colazza Full Professor University of Palermo Department of Agricultural and Forest Sciences, Viale delle scienze 5 90127 Palermo, Italy
