Grad Research Assistantship: Plant-Insect Inter. and Biofuels

[Rick Lindroth]

Graduate Research Assistantship
Plant-Insect Interactions and Biofuels 

University of Wisconsin, Madison
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Bioenergy initiatives are re-shaping the fields of agriculture and
energy production, but not without ecological and environmental
repercussions. A Graduate Research Assistantship (M.S. - Ph.D. or Ph.D.)
is anticipated for 2008 (summer/fall) to pursue research at the
interface of plant-insect interactions and sustainable biofuel
production. This research will evaluate how genetic modifications of
poplar - to enhance its potential as a biofuel feedstock - alter its
susceptibility to attack by insects. The work will be conducted in
collaboration with tree geneticists, and will focus on how specific
modifications (tree architecture and chemistry) influence insect feeding
preferences, damage rates, and community structure. The research project
can be shaped by the RA to address primarily “basic” (e.g.,
evolutionary ecology) or “applied” perspectives. The University of
Wisconsin - Madison is the lead institution of the DOE-funded Great
Lakes Bioenergy Research Center ($125 million).

Candidates may elect to pursue graduate degrees in either Entomology or
Zoology (Ecology).
                                                                                
For more information about the Lindroth research group, visit:
http://entomology.wisc.edu/~lindroth/ 

Qualifications: 

Highly motivated individuals with superior academic credentials and
strong communication skills are encouraged to apply. Well- developed
interpersonal skills are essential. Candidates must be able to work
independently as well as part of a collaborative research team.

Stipend/benefits:

50% Research Assistantships currently provide a stipend of $19,032 (12
mo.), tuition waiver, and excellent medical health plans.

Position available beginning in summer or fall of 2008.

Inquiries:
Send preliminary e-mail letter of inquiry, describing research
interests and academic qualifications, to:

Dr. Rick Lindroth 
([EMAIL PROTECTED])
Dept. of Entomology
237 Russell Labs
1630 Linden Drive
University of Wisconsin
Madison, WI  53706


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__________________________

Richard L. Lindroth, Ph.D.              
Dept. of Entomology                                     
1630 Linden Dr.                                       
University of Wisconsin                             
Madison, WI 53706                                  
U.S.A.

Phone: 608-263-6277
Fax: 608-262-3322
E-mail: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
http://entomology.wisc.edu/~lindroth/