Beca predoctoral en Nueva Zelanda

Evolutionary biology of parasites

Applications are invited from suitably qualified students for one PhD
scholarship to work under the supervision of Prof Robert Poulin. The
scholarship is part of a research grant from the Marsden Fund awarded to
Prof. Poulin and Dr Devon Keeney, and is available as of early 2008 for
three years.

Our research programme aims to investigate the key factors influencing the
evolution of host specificity in parasites. More specifically, the
research will examine how plasticity in phenotype (morphology and
behaviour) and genetic variation affect the ability of parasites to
exploit novel hosts. We will use a native New Zealand marine trematode
(parasitic flatworm) species that infects coastal crustaceans as an
experimental model, with the work involving a combination of experimental
parasitology and genetic analyses. The PhD project will fit within this
overall theme. Candidates should have interests and/or experience in
either host-parasite interactions or evolutionary biology. More
importantly, candidates should be highly motivated and enthusiastic about
pursuing doctoral research.

PhD applicants must have been awarded the degree of BSc Honours or MSc (or
equivalent) before taking up the scholarship. The emolument is NZ$25,000
per annum (tax-free) for 3 years. There is an additional NZ$4,000 per year
to cover tuition fees, and some money available in the final year for
thesis preparation costs.

Specific enquiries may be made to Prof Robert Poulin, Tel 64 3 479 7983,
Fax 64 3 479 7584 or email robert.poulin@stonebow.otago.ac.nz

METHOD OF APPLICATION

Applicants should send a cover letter stating briefly why they are
interested in this scholarship, together with the names, addresses, fax
numbers and e-mail of 2 referees. Candidates should also include a
curriculum vitae. These documents should be sent before 1st December 2007
to Prof Robert Poulin, Department of Zoology, University of Otago, P.O.
Box 56, Dunedin, New Zealand
(FAX: 643 479-7584; email: robert.poulin@stonebow.otago.ac.nz).

Further details regarding the University and how to apply for admission in
postgraduate programs can be found at the University's homepage at
http://www.otago.ac.nz