jeudi 16 octobre 2014

PhD position, University of York: Dynamic networks in invasive ant species

Dynamic networks in invasive ant species

Social insects are highly ecologically successful, with ants being among the most dominant groups worldwide. To explain this widespread ecological success, we must understand how they organize their many individual ants into effectively functioning colonies. In one striking form of organization, some of the most dominant ant species spread each colony across multiple social connected nests, a phenomenon called polydomy. All the major invasive ant species have a polydomous nesting system, and polydomy is known to affect foraging success through the formation of a network of nests, connected by trails along which food can be transported. Previous studies of polydomy have focused on static nest networks, while in reality polydomous species, especially invasive ones, flourish in changeable and often unpredictable environments. This project will address the lack of theoretical models of how flexible networks are used to respond to environmental change, for example a fluctuating food supply or challenge from competitors. The primary focus of this project is theoretical modelling; however, there is scope for empirically testing some model predictions on ant colonies in the laboratory or in the field.

How to apply
This project is part of the NERC Doctoral Training Partnership in Adapting to the Challenges of a Changing Environment (ACCE) and  will be co-supervised by Elva Robinson (Biology, University of York), Kate Parr (Earth, Ocean & Ecological Sciences, Liverpool University) and Dan Franks (Computer Science and Biology, University of York). The project will start Oct 2015 and is competitively funded. UK/EU students only. For more information about the project, ACCE and how to apply see: www.york.ac.uk/biology/postgraduate/nercdtp
Informal enquiries are welcome: Elva.Robinson@york.ac.uk