A PhD position is available in the lab of Dr. Barb Thomas ( http://people.ales.ualberta.ca/barbthomas/Prospective-Students) in the Department of Renewable Resources at the University of Alberta, Canada. Graduates seeking PDF opportunities are also encouraged to apply.
The project, which is fully funded through an NSERC Industrial Research Chair position, is entitled "Parental Selection and Assessing the Potential Impacts of Elite Breeding in White Spruce". We are seeking a PhD student or PDF to test the hypothesis that gene expression of gibberellic acid in white spruce (*Picea glauca*) seedlings can be used as an indicator of trees with superior growth characteristics. Faster growing parents will be selected based on growth data and physiological markers for gibberellic acid and gene expression based on greenhouse trials. With identification of elite parents, an advanced breeding strategy will be designed and implemented using tools such as a differential evolution algorithm developed from animal breeding. Preference will be given to prospective students that have a background and interest in forestry, ecology, genetics, ecophysiology, tree breeding strategies, and fieldwork. Prospective students must apply through UofA Graduate Studies (https://www.ualberta.ca/agriculture-life-environment- sciences/programs/graduate-programs/renewable-resources); however, those interested should first email Dr. Barb Thomas ([email protected] and cc Morgan Randall [email protected]) the following information: a letter of interest (1 page), CV describing qualifications and experience, unofficial transcripts and contact information for three references. Informal inquiries to gain more information about the positions are also welcome. The deadline for applications is January 1st, 2018, but applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
