Announcement about recruitment to the Poznań Doctoral School of Institutes of the Polish Academy of...

The most important goal of the project is the analysis of the influence of clonality and dioeciousness on the growth rate, climatic reaction and spatial structure of the white poplar.

In our research, we assume that clonally reproducing individuals (ramets that form unique genetic clone) will have a higher growth rate than singletons, i.e. single individuals not represented by a larger number of ramets. The reason may be that clonal plants can share resources between ramets and have "division of labor" strategy and/or a ramet strategy of limiting investment in generative structures (flowers and fruits) implying redirection of resources to growth. Additionally, we will check whether female and male individuals differ in their growth response in interaction with clonality. We assume that females invest more resources in generative reproduction and males in growth and clonal reproduction. At the same time, female individuals should be more sensitive to stress related to the climate (e.g. droughts, floods, low temperatures). Therefore, we expect the occurrence of spatial segregation of sexes, within which female individuals may be situated in rich in nutrients and water habitat (e.g. lower situated), and male individuals in higher locations, facilitating their pollen spread.

To achieve the research goals, we will use genetic analyzes to check each individual (ramet) for belonging to a specific genet. We will analyze the growth rate and the influence of the climate by examining the tree-ring width using the dendrochronological methodology and historical climate data. Possibilities of spatial segregation of male and female individuals will be investigated with statistical methods used in population genetics and ecology.

The tasks of the PhD student will include field research, laboratory works (DNA extraction, genetic analysis using microsatellite markers), and dendrochronological analyses.

The project includes a three-month internship at the University of Greifswald under the supervision of prof. Martin Wilmking and prof. Martin Schnittler.

We expect that the research results will allow them to be disseminated in the best international journals and will be the basis of the doctoral dissertation, and will also be presented at international conferences.

As part of the project, we offer the opportunity to conduct research in an experienced research team. We provide support in carrying out works based on the latest research directions and experience in publishing research results in leading scientific journals. We create an atmosphere of good cooperation and open exchange of ideas.

Additional information may be provided Principal Investigator: