PhD Student - Microbial mediation of pollinator behaviour - Manaaki Whenua

PhD Student -Microbial mediation of pollinator behaviour

Advisory team: David Pattemore (University of Auckland & PFR), Manpreet Dhami, Bob Brown, Patrick Garvey (Manaaki Whenua Landcare Research)

Locations: Manaaki Whenua Landcare Research (Lincoln) + Plant & Food Research (Hamilton)

Contacts: Manpreet Dhami ([email protected] )

David Pattemore ([email protected] )

Project: Plant pollinator interactions underpin one-third of global food production. How pollinators make plant foraging decisions that affect pollination success, remains little understood. Recent discovery of microbes that reside in flowers has opened up a new avenue of research in the mediation of plant pollinator interactions. Floral microbes can influence nectar chemistry and attractiveness to pollinators, thereby affecting pollination success. In this project we aim to characterize (a) which floral microbes mediate attraction or repulsion behaviour in honeybees and (2) the mechanisms with which these microbes may mediate honeybee behaviour.

We seek a PhD candidate with strong interest in honeybee behaviour and pollination biology or microbiology. The ideal candidate possesses a MSc in Biology, has demonstrated strong analytical and writing skills and will be required to satisfy all prerequisite qualifications for enrolment at the University of Auckland (see https://www.auckland.ac.nz/en/for/future-postgraduates/how-to-apply-pg/apply-for-a-doctorate/phd-entry-requirements.html ).

This project will support a three-year PhD scholarship via the University of Auckland, funded by an MBIE grant with Dr Manpreet Dhami (Manaaki Whenua Landcare Research) and Dr David Pattemore (University of Auckland & Plant and Food Research). The scholarship consists of a stipend of NZ$35,000 per annum tax free and will also cover the University of Auckland PhD tuition fees. The scholarship is open to all eligible students currently residing in New Zealand, and returning candidates who have a right to work in New Zealand (citizens and residents). This position is based in Lincoln, with substantial travel to Hamilton expected during the project.

Interested applicants should contact David Pattemore ([email protected] ) and/or Manpreet Dhami ([email protected] ).

To apply submit a CV together with transcripts, calculated GPE, and a cover letter explaining (i) their motivation for pursuing a PhD and (ii) any career goals for the next 5-10 years, (iii) writing sample, and the names of two potential referees. The position will remain open until filled.