Dr. Ivan Hiltpold is recruiting a MS student to join his new lab group (http://canr.udel.edu/faculty/ivan-hiltpold/) in the Department of Entomology and Wildlife Ecology (http://canr.udel.edu/enwc/), Univ. of Delaware, Newark, DE). The lab group takes multidisciplinary approaches to document on multitrophic interactions in the rhizosphere. The topics of interest include chemically meditated interaction between insect herbivores, roots and entomopathogenic nematodes, above-belowground interactions, crop domestication (effect on plant defense and architecture), impact of root architecture on upper trophic levels, or development of innovative tools in sustainable pest control. Hiltpolds lab, together with the shared facilities at UD, offers up-to-date instruments and technologies to undertake world-class research.
Current work in the lab is centered on the western corn rootworm as an insect model. In this context, the successful applicant will have the opportunity to look at the influence of Silicon accumulation in corn roots on the rhizopheric community. The student will undertake metabolic, phenotypic, behavioral and ecological analyzes and experiments to unravel how does corn use this key element in defenses against insect herbivores. Elements on above-belowground interactions and sustainability of the approach will be added depending on the progresses of the project. Salary A competitive salary (~$24,000 + health benefit) and tuition package will be offered to the successful applicant. General Information The Department of Entomology and Wildlife Ecology within the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources has 13 faculty, 1 extension specialist, and 15 affiliated faculty. Additional world-class faculty and professionals in other departments within the College provide excellent opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration. Research facilities include two research farms (over 200 acres each) and excellent greenhouse and laboratory facilities (see http://canr.udel.edu/enwc/). The University of Delaware is a Land Grant, Sea Grant, Space Grant, and Carnegie Research University. The University of Delaware is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages applications from minority group members and women. Successful applicant will have to enroll to the Univ. of Delaware Graduate School. Application Instructions To apply, please email Dr. Hiltpold (hiltp...@udel.edu) a cover letter describing your interests and experience, a CV, contact details of 3 professional references, unofficial transcripts, and (unofficial) GPA and GRE/TOEFL scores. Contact Dr. Hiltpold for more information. Application deadline: March 31 2017 Expected starting period: Summer semester.
