The Institute for Organismic and Molecular Evolution at the University of Mainz, Germany, invites applications for a PhD position: Real-Time Evolution of Plant-Herbivore Interactions in the group Plant Evolutionary Ecology, headed by Jun.-Prof Dr Meret Huber Salary level TV-L E13, 50%
Background: One of the central paradigms in plant-herbivore interactions states that plants and their herbivores co-evolve. Yet, experimental evidence for this prediction is scarce. In this project, we aim to fill this knowledge gap by experimentally evolving duckweeds and one of its major native herbivores, the water lily aphid.
By taking advantage of the rapid life cycles and the experimental manipulation possibilities in these species, we will observe and manipulate evolution in both interaction partners in real-time and thereby experimentally test a central hypothesis in plant-herbivore interactions.
We look for an enthusiastic and ambitious PhD student with strong interest in plant-herbivore interactions and evolution. The applicant should have a solid background in plant ecology or evolution and have interest in combining molecular tools, chemical analytics and experimental evolution. Experience in plant-environment interactions is advantageous. The applicant must be fluent in English and hold a MSc degree in Biology or related fields.
We offer a stimulating and interdisciplinary research environment including state-of-the-art facilities in a dynamic research group that ensures extensive supervision. The candidate can join the graduate school GenEvo (“Gene Regulation in Evolution”) and fully benefit from its tailored programme.
How to apply:
Please send a single pdf containing i) a motivation letter (max. 2 pages), ii) detailed CV, iii) copies of BSc and MSc degree, and iv) names and addresses of two referees to meret.huber@uni-mainz.de. The reviewing process will start immediately and will continue until the position is filled. The successful candidate may start as soon as possible. Deadline: 12 June 2023
The University of Mainz is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to increasing the proportion of female academics. Consequently, we actively encourage applications by women.
The University of Mainz is committed to employing more staff with disabilities. Candidates with recognized severe disabilities who have equivalent qualifications are given preference in hiring decisions, although some restrictions related to specific project-related tasks may apply.
Jun.-Prof. Dr. Meret Huber Institute of Organismic and Molecular Evolution University of Mainz meret.huber@uni-mainz.de Phone: 0049 (0)6131 3930260 Website: (https://www.uni-muenster.de/Biologie.IBBP/aghuber/).