We are offering a 3yr PhD fellowship associated with a Spanish BBVA grant entitled "Plant invasion and herbivory: genetic and ecological factors mediating the success of an invasive plant". The fellowship will be hosted at the Dpt of Ecology at the University of Granada (www.ugr.es).
The overall goal of this grant is to explore the causes promoting the invasion of North and South America by the Black Mustard (BM) , Brassica nigra, a crucifer native to the Mediterranean. The specific objectives are: 1- To investigate the ecological mechanisms underlying the interaction between BM and its herbivores inside and outside the natural distribution area. 2- To explore the genetic mechanisms driving the BM phenotypic modification and allowing its success as invasive plant. 3- To experimentally determine the adaptation of BM to its herbivores inside and outside the natural distribution area. The candidate will be trained in field ecology (experimental designs, field study of herbivory, plant reproductive ecology), chemical ecology (analysis of glucosinolates and other plant secondary compounds), and molecular genetics (AFLPs, microsatelites). Any previous experience in any of these areas is welcome. The candidate should also have driving license and be prone to learn Spanish or else Spanish speaking. Please, anyone interested in this fellowship contact me (Dr. José M. Gómez, [EMAIL PROTECTED]) and Dr. Francisco Perfectti ([EMAIL PROTECTED]) as soon as possible.
