University of Wisconsin-Madison MS and PhD positions on molecular
adaptation of invasive insects
Position Description:
MS and/or PhD research assistantships are available to assess how
invasive insects adapt to novel environments in the Molecular Ecology
Lab at UW Madison. 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
—
Sean Schoville
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Department of Entomology
1630 Linden Drive
637 Russell Labs
Madison, WI 53706
Office phone: 608-262-2956
http://labs.russell.wisc.edu/molecularecology