PhD Studentship in Plant-Herbivore Ecology: Global trends in phytochemical diversity and plant-herbivore interactions

We are seeking enthusiastic candidates to join the prestigious JUNIOR STAR project funded by the Czech Science Foundation, aimed at exploring the global drivers of phytochemical diversity. This project investigates the fascinating diversity of plant metabolites by analysing how various aspects of chemical diversity correlate with biotic and abiotic stress factors. This highly interdisciplinary research combines fieldwork in diverse locations worldwide (Europe, USA, Panama, Cameroon, Japan) with advanced laboratory work using cutting-edge techniques in metabolomics, biostatistics, and bioinformatics. Through these methods, the successful candidate will help reveal global trends in plant chemical strategies and their effects on multitrophic interactions and chemical communication among plants, insect herbivores, and their natural enemies.

We are looking for candidates that have:

• A MSc degree (non-negotiable requirement for PhD program eligibility)
• A strong interest in chemical and community ecology of plants and insects
• Ability to work in demanding field conditions
• Basic experience working in molecular biology or analytical chemistry laboratories
• Excellent biostatistical skills
• Experience in bioinformatics (optional)
• Fluent spoken and written English
• Ability to work independently
• A driver’s license (optional but highly recommended)

The successful applicant will join the Ecology Department at the Institute of Entomology, Biology Center of the Czech Academy of Science (web) and the Zoology Department of the University of South Bohemia (web). The PhD study will be supervised by Dr. Martin Volf (web). The candidate will live in Ceske Budejovice (Czech Republic) (web) where the studies will take place and conduct fieldwork and research stays in Europe and overseas. Our department is a diverse, international team studying ecology, evolution and biogeography, and a world-class centre for interaction network research with regular publications in leading journals.

The deadline for applications is December 9th 2024. The best candidates will be interviewed in mid-December. The successful applicant is expected to start on April 1 st 2025 (later start date negotiable). This five-year project offers a scholarship fully covering living expenses in the Czech Republic for the full standard duration of the PhD studies. Applicants from all countries are eligible. To apply, please send a CV, contact details for three references, and a cover letter stating qualifications, previous work and motivation to Dr. Martin Volf (volf@entu.cas.cz) where you can also send any queries.