The Bio-Protection Research Centre, Lincoln University, New Zealand is offering a fully funded PhD fellowship 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.
The PhD 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 PhD 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. There is scope within the PhD to account for both the particular interests of the successful candidate and the outcome of other ongoing experiments within the larger project. The scholarships provide an annual stipend of NZD$28,000 a year tax- free, covers full university fees and includes up to approximately NZD$10,000 additional support a year towards operating expenses. The duration of the scholarship is three years. It is expected the successful candidates will be based at Lincoln University, Canterbury, New Zealand. 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 and/or molecular ecology as well as a desire to combine both field and laboratory analyses. The ideal candidate will be independent, organized and a problem solver with some experience in lab bench work, molecular ecology/population genetics, and/or bioinformatics for genomic data analyses, and be prepared to conduct some field-based research in a collaborative environment. The position is open to applicants of any nationality, provided they are fluent in English, have suitable qualifications from an internationally recognised university, are able to obtain a student visa and eligible for admission to the PhD program at Lincoln University. 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 and how their qualifications would map onto the proposed research. Please email complete applications to [email protected]. Closing date for applications is 1st November 2017 with an expected start date before May 2018.
