Herbivores and their natural enemies have a profound impact on plant
growth and yield. A major aim in plant biology is, therefore, to
understand the factors that influence herbivore damage and predation by
higher trophic levels in order to improve ecosystem management and pest
control strategies.
This project investigates the dynamics of plant
herbivore natural enemy interactions in the rhizosphere, with a focus on
plant toxins and climate change. The successful candidate will work on the
interaction between maize, its most important herbivore pest Diabrotica
virgifera and entomopathogenic nematodes as promising biocontrol agents.
Using analytical, molecular and ecological approaches, he/she will
investigate how plant secondary metabolites influence the interaction, and
how soil abiotic factors that are likely to be altered by climate change
affect the different players of the system. The PhD project is closely
associated with the Oeschger Centre for Climate Change Research (OCCR), a
world-leading institution in climate sciences.
We look for an enthusiastic PhD student with strong interests in
plant-herbivore interactions. Applicants should have a firm background in
one of the following fields: Molecular biology, biochemistry, plant
physiology, analytical chemistry, entomology, ecology. All our projects
are highly integrative and require willingness to embrace multiple
disciplines within the domain of plant- environment interactions.
Excellent University grades at the MSc. level are expected. Fluent spoken
and written English are prerequisites for this position.
We offer an inspiring research environment, including state-of-the art
research facilities, intensive supervision and an exciting project of
considerable fundamental and applied relevance. The institute of Plant
Sciences is located at the shore of the river Aare, close to the vibrant
centre of the city of Bern. The PhD student is paid according to
University standard rates and will benefit from the courses offered by the
Graduate School of the OCCR (www.climatestudies.unibe.ch/graduate).
How to apply: Send a single pdf including a letter of motivation, a CV
with University grades and the names and addresses of two referees to
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. The position is available immediately and will
remain open until filled.
Contact: Prof. Matthias Erb, Institute of Plant Sciences, University of
Bern, Altenbergrain 21, 3013 Bern, Switzerland,
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.
Matthias Erb <
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