University of Wisconsin-Madison MS and PhD positions on molecular adaptation of invasive insects

Position Description:
MS and/or PhD research assistantships are available in the Molecular Ecology Lab at UW Madison to assess how invasive insects adapt to novel environments. Insect pests can be viewed as model systems in which to explore fundamental concepts in ecology and evolutionary biology. They are especially promising candidates to study mechanisms of rapid evolution at the genetic level, as many insect pests have shown a remarkable ability to cope with pesticides, novel climatic space, and novel host plants. While there are significant challenges in determining adaptation at the genetic level and in finding ways to forecast future changes, there are strong incentives (ecological, economic and social) to do this research. Students will combine population genomics approaches with field ecology and manipulative experiments to understand the evolutionary mechanisms of adaptation. Training will focus on the use of population genomics and physiological approaches to relate spatial and temporal variation in the environment to adaptive genetic variation.

Information on University, Department, Lab, and City:
The University of Wisconsin-Madison is one of the major research universities in the United States. This project will be supported in the Department of Entomology and under the supervision of Dr. Sean Schoville.
Madison consistently ranks as one of the best places in the United States to live, work, and study. It is Wisconsin’s capital city, with a vibrant population of approximately 230,000 that combines small town charm with a variety of leisure and cultural opportunities.

Stipend/Salary:
Current annual stipend levels are $22,081 per year before taxes, plus tuition remission and health care benefits.  Financial support is available for two years.  The start date for the project is September 2018.

Qualifications:
A BS or BA degree in entomology, biology or a related discipline is required.

We are looking for motivated students interested in pursuing a MS or PhD degree at UW-Madison. Students with an MS degree will be given preference in admissions to the PhD program. The preferred candidate will have prior research experience and have some knowledge of population genetics.
Candidates should have interests in entomology, evolutionary ecology, and working in both the field and laboratory. Excellent writing and verbal communication skills are expected, as well as the ability to work collaboratively.

Application Process:
Applications will be reviewed upon receipt and review will continue until candidates are chosen.  The application deadline is Jan 9, 2018. The University of Wisconsin-Madison is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. We promote excellence through diversity and encourage all qualified individuals to apply.

Interested applicants are asked to e-mail the following documents listed below to our Student Services Coordinator Sara Rodock (rodock@wisc.edu) (in ONE PDF file please).  Please specify in your letter when you would be available to start.

Required Documents:
-The “Entomology; University of Wisconsin-Madison Graduate Application Cover Sheet” which can be found at:
http://www.entomology.wisc.edu/sites/default/files/schoville_coversheet.doc
– A well-crafted cover letter outlining research interests, academic and professional backgrounds
– Resume/CV
– Copies of transcripts (unofficial copies acceptable at this point)
– GRE scores if available
– Names and contact addresses of three references

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