They are looking for a highly motivated graduate student interested in behavioural /social evolution. The research of our group focuses on the early evolution of family interactions by cooperation, conflict and co-adaptation.Our research is carried out using a (sub-)social insect species, the common earwig Forficula auricularia (Dermaptera). Earwig females provide food to their early instar nymphs and protect them against predation. The nymphs interact with their mothers to influence food provisioning, and they compete among each other for resources. Earwigs are an ideal system to help us better understand the functional context in which the early evolution of family life took place, because nymphs are not fully dependent on maternal care. One aspect our previous work showed, which we will investigate further, is that insect progeny solicit from their caring parents by chemical signalling (pheromones). The details of the project will be developed together with the successful candidate also depending on her/his skills and interest.
Background:
Applicants should have a MSc degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field, and a strong background and keen interest in behavioural and/or chemical ecology. Previous experience with behavioral observation and quantification is an advantage, and an interest in learning GC/MS techniques is required.
More information:
www.evolution.unibas.ch Please send your application documents (CV, list of publication, short summary of your current research, a statement on your reasons to pursue a PhD, contact details for two referees) by e-mail and as single pdf to: Dr. Mathias Kolliker (Ass Prof SNF) University of Basel, Zoological Institute, Evolutionary Biology, Vesalgasse 1, 4051 Basel, e-mail: mathias.koelliker@unibas.ch
Application deadline:
before 31 May.