The labs of Dr. Betsy Beers (http://www.tfrec.wsu.edu/pages/ebeers) and Dr. Dave Crowder (http://entomology.wsu.edu/david-crowder/) and in the Department of Entomology at Washington State University are recruiting a student at the M.S. or Ph.D. level, to study acoustic (vibrational) communication by psyllid pests. Research on psyllids has shown that male and female psyllids conduct acoustic “duets” during their mate-locating activities. We are seeking a student who is interested in conducting research on acoustic communication by a psyllid pest of pears. Research areas may include behavioral analyses of duetting activities; recording acoustic signals and analyzing waveform traits; and, describing morphological structures of psyllids used in producing acoustic signals. Project aims are to develop fundamental knowledge leading to better understanding of the mate-locating activities of this pear pest. Moreover, These data will be used to design mating disruption strategies using acoustic signals that interfere with mate location by psyllids Potential students should have interests in insect behavior and mate-location strategies of insects. The research will be conducted in close collaboration with Dr. David Horton of the USDA, and field research will be conducted primarily in central Washington (so the student must be willing to travel to field sites in university-provided vehicles). Students interested in starting graduate school in August 2017 or January 2018 are encouraged to apply. To apply send CV and statement of interest to Dave Crowder (dcrow...@wsu.edu). Students that have completed MS degrees or conducted an independent research project are particularly encouraged to apply.
