PhD studentship investigating the role of genetic shifts in success of invasive plant species
The Bio-Protection Research Centre, Lincoln University, New Zealand is offering a fully funded PhD studentship addressing the contemporary evolution of invasive weeds. This is a fantastic opportunity for a student wanting to bridge the disciplines of ecology and bioinformatics using cutting-edge molecular techniques with real world applications. The student will become a key member of a national research team undertaking an integrated project examining phenotypic variation, niche shifts and local adaptation in invasive plant species using globally- distributed weeds in the genus Rumex (dock) as a study system. Background The PhD project aims to examine the genetic basis of performance differences in invasive plants between the native and introduced range. Applying a range of molecular and genomic technologies, the student will determine the extent of genotypic variation among and within populations of invasive plant species in the native (Europe) and introduced range (New Zealand) and apply experimental approaches to identify the benefits of genetic admixture in plant invasions. Find out more here (copy and paste link into browser): https://bioprotection.org.nz/vacancies/phd-studentship-investigating- role-genetic-shifts-success-invasive-plant-species There is scope within the research for the successful candidate to explore their own particular interests and the outcomes of other ongoing experiments within the larger project. We offer The scholarship provides an annual stipend of NZD$28,000 a year tax- free, covers full university fees and approximately NZD$10,000 additional support a year towards operating expenses. The duration of the scholarship is three years. The successful candidate will be based at Lincoln University, Canterbury, New Zealand. Qualifications Applicants for this project should hold a first class or high 2A honours degree, or equivalent, in a relevant area, preferably with interest in population genetics, molecular ecology and/or bioinformatics and a desire to combine both field and laboratory analyses. The position is open to applicants of any nationality, provided they are fluent in English, able to obtain a student visa and eligible for admission to the PhD program at Lincoln University, New Zealand. To apply Applications should include evidence of qualifications and research experience, together with a curriculum vitae and contact details of three academic referees. Applications should be supported by a cover letter that states why the candidate is interested in the PhD project and how their qualifications would map onto the proposed research. Please email complete applications to Professor Philip Hulme philip.hu...@lincoln.ac.nz Deadline for applications is 24 June 2017, with an expected start date prior to 1 December 2017
