A Ph.D. position is available in the area of experimental evolution and population dynamics in the labs of Dr. William Nelson and Dr. Steve Lougheed at Queen's University in Kingston, Ontario.
We seek a motivated and independent student for a project investigating the effect of evolution on population dynamics in a stage-structured insect system. The project combines experimental and theoretical evolution using cowpea weevils (Callosbruchus maculatus) as a model system. Using a recently developed system to manipulate resources, the student will be able to investigate the influence of changes in resource quality on evolutionary and ecological dynamics. Depending on the applicant's interests, the project could focus on anything from looking at the influence of evolution on extinction risk, to trait evolution under cycling population dynamics. The project benefits from the ongoing collaboration between Dr. Lougheed (post.queensu.ca/~lough/) and Dr. Nelson (post.queensu.ca/~nelsonw/index.html) who have strengths in both experimental and theoretical research. This dual approach enables predictions of evolutionary dynamics based on life-history experiments, followed by experimental tests of these predictions. Queen's University, located on the shores of Lake Ontario in Kingston, is a leading research-intensive institution with a strong graduate program in Ecology and Evolution, as well as Mathematical Biology. The Biology department currently houses 15 faculty members focused on Ecology and Evolution advising over 60 graduate students, and supports an active seminar series. The department provides a stimulating academic environment with a collegial atmosphere. Queen's Biology guarantees a minimum annual stipend of $22,500; and Queen's University is committed to fostering equity and diversity in the workplace. Applicants should have a strong academic record and demonstrated ability for independent research. We encourage applicants with a background in either mathematics or experimental biology. Please send your CV, a copy of academic transcripts, and a cover letter to Bill Nelson ([email protected]) and Steve Lougheed ([email protected]). Clay Cressler Dept. of Biology Queen's University [email protected]
