Graduate position: Buzz pollination, Uppsala U

We are looking for a PhD student in plant evolution to join us at the
Plant Ecology and Evolution program, Department of Ecology and Genetics,
Uppsala University, Sweden.

This is a fully-funded 4-year studentship open to all nationalities.

Project title: Why does buzz pollination evolve?

Bees and flowering plants share an ancient evolutionary history
that has given rise to striking adaptations in both flowers and
their pollinators. Among them, is the evolution of buzz-pollinated
flowers, i.e., flowers that depend on vibration-producing bees to
reproduce. Buzz-pollinated flowers have repeatedly evolved across many
independent plant lineages, yet we know little about why buzz pollination
evolves.

In this project, the PhD student will compare species from four different
origins of buzz-pollinated flowers to test several general hypotheses of
why buzz pollination evolves. Specific tests will include glasshouse and
common garden experiments at Uppsala University but may also be extended
to field localities in Sweden and abroad. The PhD student will have access
to excellent plant growth facilities, flight arenas to study bee behavior,
particle counters, as well as specialized equipment to study the effects
of bee vibrations on flowers (e.g., accelerometers, shakers, lasers,
micro-robots). The planned tests represent an ambitious and unprecedented
evaluation of the evolutionary reasons for buzz pollination and will
provide crucial insights into the mechanisms driving the convergent
evolution of buzz-pollinated flowers.

For further information about the position, please contact
Professor, Mario Vallejo-Marin, mario.vallejo-marin@ebc.uu.se

To apply for this position please follow this link:

https://uu.varbi.com/en/what:job/jobID:746609/

Application instructions
The application should include 1) your research interests, and a
motivation of why you want to pursue a Ph.D., your interest in this
specific project, and your suitability for the position, 2) your
CV including your education, research experience, and references to
publications, if applicable, 3) names and contact details of two referees
(email addresses, institution, and phone numbers). The application should
be written in English.

You are welcome to submit your application no later than 18 September,
2024.

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mario.vallejo-marin@ebc.uu.se

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