The evolution of freeze-tolerant alpine insects
Two fully-funded PhD scholarships
Massey University Manawatū New Zealand
Alpine insects in Aotearoa-New Zealand have converged on the same unusual evolutionary strategy for surviving the cold; they freeze solid and survive. Microbes can change how and when insects freeze, potentially providing benefits that are shared by unrelated host species. These projects will determine whether three separate alpine insect lineages have independently arrived at the same solution by each producing unique ice nucleating agents (classical convergent evolution), or whether they all employ the same gut microbes to do the job (horizontal transfer).
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___The evolution of freeze-tolerant alpine insects
Two fully-funded PhD scholarships
Massey University Manawatū New Zealand
Alpine insects in Aotearoa-New Zealand have converged on the same unusual evolutionary
strategy for surviving the cold; they freeze solid and survive. Microbes can change how and
when insects freeze, potentially providing benefits that are shared by unrelated host species.
These projects will determine whether three separate alpine insect lineages have independently
arrived at the same solution by each producing unique ice nucleating agents (classical
convergent evolution), or whether they all employ the same gut microbes to do the job
(horizontal transfer).
This programme is part of a collaboration between scientists at Massey University and the
University of Otago, supported by the New Zealand Royal Society Te Apārangi. The team:
Mary Morgan-Richards and Steve Trewick (Te Taha Tawhiti), Patrick Biggs (School of
Veterinary Science) and Craig Marshall (University of Otago). See our review
paper: https://www.mdpi.com/2075-4450/14/1/89
Project 1 will test the hypothesis that NZ insects are dependent on associations with ice+
microbes and that this is an essential element of their freeze-tolerance. You will investigate the
association between microbiome and temperature of crystallization (Tc) in cockroaches.
Project 2 will test our novel hypothesis that sharing of gut microbes has led to the same freeze-
tolerant phenotype of so many NZ alpine insects. You will use DNA and mRNA sequences to
compare microbiome communities and ice+ activity of gut.
The scholarship is a tax-free stipend of NZ$35,000 per annum for 3 years plus tuition fees
paid for 3 years. To apply you will need a good first degree from an internationally recognised
university (minimum upper second class BScHons or MSc) in an appropriate subject. A
completed research project, dissertation, or thesis of at least 30 credits or a minimum of 25%
of your honours or master’s degree, with a B+ or higher grade.
You should have a background in Ecology/Biology/Evolution/Entomology, good statistics
skills (preferably R) and an interest in microbiomes. A good grasp of experimental design and
ability to work outdoors, independently, in a laboratory and as a part of a research team are
welcomed. English language proficiency and excellent communication skills are required.
Apply by email to Mary m.morgan-richards@massey.ac.nz with an
application letter telling us about yourself, your relevant skills and when you
can start. Include your CV with links to your publications and/or thesis and
contact details for two referees. Email Mary if you have questions.
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