PhD student in biology

Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences Department of Ecology in Ultuna 1 PhD student in the research education subject: Biology Outbreak dynamics of the spruce bark beetle The spruce bark beetle (Ips typographus) is an important pest of Norway spruce in Europe.During outbreak conditions the species is able to kill living trees in large numbers.The most important factors triggering outbreaks are storm disturbances and drought stress.Storms provide the bark beetles with a surplus of breeding material (storm-felled spruces) which allows the populations to increase to densities high enough to overcome the defence of living trees.Tree mortality may expand during several years before the outbreak ends.The aim of this project is (1) to develop a model that predicts the duration and relative amount of tree mortality caused by the spruce bark beetle in different kinds of storm-disturbed stands and (2) to test hypotheses about which factors that cause the collapse of outbreaks.After the storm Gudrun we have followed the outbreak dynamics in 36 sites in southern Sweden.These data in combination with new field studies and experiments will be the basis for this PhD project.Qualifications Qualifications for this position is an exam in biology, agronomy, environmental science or similar subjects, with specialisation in ecology or entomology.Advanced level courses in population ecology, theoretical ecology, and entomology are meriting, as are documented abilities to do field work, to communicate well in written and spoken English, and to have an undergraduate thesis project or other documented experiences in ecology connected to the position's subject.The candidate should have the ability to work independently, take own initiatives, and have an interest in combining basic and applied ecological questions.Driving license is necessary. Forms for funding or employment Employment as PhD student 4 years A person has basic eligibility for third level education if he or she has taken a second level qualification or has completed course requirements of at least 240 higher education credits, including at least 60 higher education credits at second level.Those who met the requirements for general eligibility before July 1st, 2007, i.e.had completed a programme of higher education for at least 180 Higher education credits or the equivalent, will continue to do so until the end of 2015." Selection among applicants meeting the requirements is made with reference to written application including curriculum vitae, copies of degrees and transcripts of academic records, one copy of the dissertation for masters or undergraduate degree, a list of at least two references familiar with the applicant's qualifications, certified knowledge of the English language and an interview. Read more about the PhD education in the Handbook for postgraduate students Read about the PhD education at SLU at www.slu.se/PhD For a complete avdt: http://www.slu.se/phdadvert