Wasp eradication and suppression strategies
PhD Scholarship available in the School of Biological Sciences, University
of Auckland, New Zealand
This project will develop an eradication strategy for Vespula wasps,
utilising updated population models to evaluate current and emerging control
tools such as RNAi control, the Trojan Female Technique (equivalent to the
sterile male technique), novel pathogens, pheromones and semiochemicals. The
aim is to develop a step-change in the management of wasps, from the current
“small site control” to “landscape-level eradication”. The student will gain
a sound knowledge of wasp ecology and be trained in population modelling.
Field work may be carried out in many parts of New Zealand, particularly
offshore islands.
Annual stipend + fees: NZ$25,000 per annum for 3 years from 2016
Supervisors: Associate Professor Jacqueline Beggs (University of Auckland),
Dr Darren Ward (University of Auckland and Landcare Research), and Dr Mandy
Barron (Landcare Research)
Applications close: Tuesday 31st May 2016
Start date: Flexible, but prefer June-August 2016
Further Information: http://aucklandecology.com/opportunities/
Contact: [email protected]
