Graduate position: Biology.Centre.CZ.Global.trends.phytochemical.diversity

PhD Studentship in Plant-Herbivore Ecology
Global trends in phytochemical diversity and plant-herbivore interactions

We are seeking enthusiastic candidates to join the prestigious JUNIOR
STAR project funded by the Czech Science Foundation, aimed at exploring
the global drivers of phytochemical diversity. This project investigates
the fascinating diversity of plant metabolites by analysing how various
aspects of chemical diversity correlate with biotic and abiotic stress
factors. This highly interdisciplinary research combines fieldwork
in diverse locations worldwide (Europe, USA, Panama, Cameroon, Japan)
with advanced laboratory work using advanced techniques in metabolomics,
biostatistics, and bioinformatics. Through these methods, the successful
candidate will help reveal global trends in plant chemical strategies
and their effects on multitrophic interactions and chemical communication
among plants, insect herbivores, and their natural enemies.

We are looking for candidates that have

  *   A MSc degree (non-negotiable requirement for PhD program
      eligibility)
  *   A strong interest in chemical and community ecology of plants
      and insects
  *   Ability to work in demanding field conditions
  *   Basic experience working in molecular biology or analytical
      chemistry laboratories
  *   Excellent biostatistical skills
  *   Experience in bioinformatics (optional)
  *   Fluent spoken and written English
  *   Ability to work independently
  *   A driver's license (optional but highly recommended)

The successful applicant will join the Ecology Department at the Institute
of Entomology, Biology Center of the Czech Academy of Science and the
Zoology Department of the University of South Bohemia. The PhD study will
be supervised by Dr. Martin Volf, leader of the Evolutionary Ecology
team. The candidate will live in Ceske Budejovice (Czech Republic)
where the studies will take place and conduct fieldwork and research
stays in Europe and overseas. Our department is a diverse, international
team studying ecology, evolution and biogeography, and a world-class
centre for interaction network research with regular publications in
leading journals.

The deadline for applications is December 9th 2024. The best candidates
will be interviewed in mid-December. The successful applicant is expected
to start on April 1st 2025 (later start date negotiable). This five-year
project offers a scholarship fully covering living expenses in the Czech
Republic for the full standard duration of the PhD studies. Applicants
from all countries are eligible. To apply, please send a CV, contact
details for three references, and a cover letter stating qualifications,
previous work and motivation to Dr. Martin Volf (volf@entu.cas.cz)
where you can also send any queries.

External Links
Volf lab: https://www.volflab.com/
Czech Academy of Science : https://www.entu.cas.cz/en/homepage/
Zoology Department of the University of South Bohemia:
http://zoo.prf.jcu.cz/?lang=en
Ceske Budejovice :
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C4%8Cesk%C3%A9_Bud%C4%9Bjovice

Volf Martin <volf@entu.cas.cz>

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