MSc Studentship (2009-2011) Modelling Emerald Ash Borer survival The University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
Come to Waterloo to study the probability of overwintering by Emerald Ash Borer, an invasive beetle that is devastating ash trees in Southwestern Ontario. You will learn to create models that predict the probability of temperature extremes in the underbark microclimate using weather station data. You will interact closely with other members of the project, including physiological ecologists at the University of Western Ontario and foresters in London, Ontario, as they make an important contribution towards the management of this potentially devastating pest. The ideal candidate will have a B.Sc. (Hons.) or equivalent with a background in entomology, ecology, physiology, mathematics, or statistics. Required skills include: mathematical aptitude, a strong desire to learn how to create models, experience with programming, some research experience, and willingness to do some field work. Preferred personal attributes include: a friendly attitude, willingness to work a full work week, and a desire to interact with other members of the Biology department. Your supervisor will be Kim Cuddington, a theoretical ecologist who focuses on the effects of both physical environmental structure and temporal environmental variation on population dynamics. Related research projects in the lab include: developing models to predict the spread rate of invasive species, predicting the spatial-temporal pattern of insect outbreak dynamics, and determining the effect of small scale spatial structure on insect population dynamics. Informal communication with Dr. Cuddington is welcome. Please note that the home location for the position is at the University of Waterloo and successful candidate must meet the criteria for entry into the Biology graduate program at Waterloo. More information about graduate studies at Waterloo can be found at http://www.grad.uwaterloo.ca/students/prospective/recruit/brochure08.pdf. To Apply: Please email Dr. Kim Cuddington (kcuddingATuwaterloo.ca) a CV, a description of your research interests and experience, unofficial transcripts, and the names and contact details of three referees. The successful candidate will begin their program in May 2009. Review of applications will continue until a suitable candidate is found. Additional Information: Please note that this position does not involve genetics or molecular biology, and I am therefore not looking for someone with extensive experience in these areas!
