Reproductive division of labor in facultative eusocial Hymenoptera

PhD Position, Department of Zoology, Charles University, Prague
Supervisor: Michael Mikát

Deadline of call: 1st April, 2024

Insect societies are among the most successful and fascinating outcomes
of evolution, largely due to the presence of workers individuals
who sacrifice their own reproduction to support the reproduction of
others. Reproductive altruism is a central concept in the study of social
insects, yet much remains unknown about the conditions that enable its
emergence. While a substantial body of theoretical research exists on
the origins of reproductive altruism, few studies have investigated the
extent of this phenomenon in simple insect societies.

This project seeks to explore reproductive skew in carpenter bees
(Xylocopinae), a group characterized by relatively simple social
structures, using genetic markers. Student will assess within-nest
relatedness across 10 Xylocopinae species and integrate our findings with
data from approximately 20 other simple social Hymenoptera species. By
identifying the key factors influencing reproductive skew and testing
the applicability of existing reproductive skew models, we aim to refine
or develop more accurate models. Ultimately, our research seeks to shed
light on the origins and persistence of reproductive division of labor,
advancing our understanding of the evolution of social insects.

Required Qualifications:
- MSc degree (for Ph.D. applicants) in the field of biology.
- Strong writing and communication skills.
- Interest in the evolution of social insects.
- Passion for biology.

Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with entomological research.
- Proficiency in statistical analysis (e.g., R).
- Programming skills (e.g., Python).
- Experience with bioinformatics.
- Ability to work and endure harsh field conditions.
- Familiarity with relatedness analysis, particularly using
  microsatellites.

Prospective candidates should submit an academic CV (including a list of
publications).
Additionally, please provide a motivation letter addressing the following
points:
a) The biological questions and approaches that interest you most.
b) Your interest in and experience with social insects.
c) Your previous experience in biological research.
d) Provide references to senior researchers you have collaborated with
   in the past.

The deadline for this call is April 1. The most promising candidates
will be invited to an online meeting, which will take place during
April. Start of the project: September 2025

Supervisor: Michael Mikát
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Michael-Mikat?ev=hdr_xprf
Team members: Jiøí Hadrava, Daniel Benda
Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague,
Czech Republic
Contact: michael.mikat@gmail.com   (if you are interested to additional
info, do not hesitate to ask)

Michael Mikát <michael.mikat@gmail.com>

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