Ph.D. Graduate Research Assistantship on the disruption of host specialization for the invasive swede midge
Dr. Yolanda Chen, Dept. of Plant and Soil Sciences, University of Vermont

Position availability: Spring semester 2014.

Support: Four years of support is available through grants from NE IPM and Vermont Specialty Crop Block grant, and through the Department of Plant and Soil Sciences.

Position Summary: The goal of this research project is to examine manipulation of non-host plant odors and plants may be used to disrupt host location by the swede midge, a new invasive pest specialized on brassica crops. A special emphasis will be placed on developing strategies that are feasible for organic cropping systems.

Requirements:  A background in biology, ecology, or related fields. Previous experience with entomology is an additional advantage. Excellent written and oral communication skills. Applicants must meet the requirements of the Graduate College at University of Vermont.

Application Procedure: Email the following: 1) statement of interest in the position and major research interests, 2) CV, 3) GRE scores, and 4) unofficial transcripts directly to Yolanda.Chen@uvm.edu. Please arrange for three letters of reference to be sent separately to the same email address.

Official applications should be submitted in an online application portal through the Graduate College (https://www.applyweb.com/apply/uvmg/menu.html). Deadline for the receipt of the official application is October 15.