We are what we eat – This old Chinese saying is especially true for insect herbivores that
feed on a single plant during their whole development. As part of an international
collaboration, we recently started to investigate the role of benzoxazinoids (BXDs) in plant
insect interactions. BXDs are key defensive metabolites in grasses, and our project aims at
unraveling their role in maize resistance by investigating both the plant and the insect
simultaneously. By bringing together plant biochemistry, molecular biology, ecology, behavior
and insect physiology, this initiative will contribute significantly to the study of BXDs as a
model for plant-insect coevolution and as natural pest control agents.
In this context, we are inviting applications for a
PhD position in Plant-Insect Ecology
The position is funded for three years. Based at the Agroscope Changins-Wädenswil
Research Station in Nyon, the fellow will investigate the role of BXDs in the interaction of
maize with different insect herbivores. This includes conducting experiments with several
herbivore species and maize lines in the field and the greenhouse. Furthermore, the
successful candidate will establish a close collaboration with the other partners of the
initiative working on molecular, biochemical, phytochemical and applied aspects of the
system. In this context, a highly integrated workflow will ensure that results are quickly
exchanged and hypotheses generated by one discipline will be taken up and tested by the
others. The student will also interact with a technician in charge of insect rearing and other
practical aspects of the project.
We expect: A strong interest in plant-insect interactions, behavioral ecology, chemical
ecology or a related field. A strong interdisciplinary interest coupled with good
communication skills. Willingness to visit partner-laboratories. Experience in conducting
manipulative field experiments and a sound background in statistics are a plus.
We offer: An excellent research environment with enthusiastic scientists from different
nationalities and scientific backgrounds. The possibility to learn state-of-the art techniques
from “genes to agroecosystems”. A pleasant surrounding with a high quality of live and
outstanding public services.
The deadline for applications is September 30, 2011. Interviews will start in mid October.
The position will be available from November 1st, 2011, and should preferably be filled not
later than December 1st, 2011. Please send your application (Word or pdf document)
including a CV, letter of motivation and research interests as well as the names of two
academic references via e-mail to: matthias.held@unine.ch
For more information, contact the project leader, Matthias Erb (merb@ice.mpg.de), or the
supervisor in Nyon, Thomas Steinger (thomas.steinger@acw.admin.ch).