PhD student in biology

Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences Department of Ecology in Ultuna 1 PhD student in the research education subject: Biology Enemy-enemy interactions and efficiency of biological control against insect pests. Efficient and sustainable biological control of insect pests needs to rely on the combined action of several natural enemies.The net outcomes of enemy-enemy interactions are, however, not easily predicted.The aim of this project is to identify the characteristics of enemy-enemy combinations that leads to more efficient biological control than the action of single enemies.The study system will be insects on willows.We have a good knowledge about the interactions in the system, involving leaf beetles, predatory bugs and syrphid flies.There are, for example, time series data of insect densities from 30 sites (both plantations and natural stands) collected during more than 12 years that could be utilized in the project.These data in combination with field and laboratory experiments will be the basis for this PhD project.Willows are grown as a bioenergy crop and the leaf beetles may reduce biomass production substantially.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 and community 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 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 SLU is an Equal Opportunity Employer.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 120 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. Applications, marked with ref no 251-3996/08, must have arrived at the Registrar of SLU, P.O.