[Taxacom] pHd position taxonomy and phylogeny nematodes, Ghent University, Belgium

[wim.bert at telenet.be]

PhD position 

We are looking for a full-time PhD student to conduct research in nematology, which should lead to a Ph.D. degree in Science. The successful candidate will receive a scholarship from Ghent University for a period of 48 months with starting date October 1 or 31 (depending on the candidate), 2012. The general research theme includes taxonomy and evolution of plant-parasitic nematodes. The candidate will work in a dynamic international research environment . 


The first objective of this project is to provide a more comprehensive description of nematode biodiversity, based on an efficient combined acquisition of data, including molecular, morphological, biogeographical, ecological, and parasitic data, with a focus on material from developing countries that is largely unexplored or only fractionally studied (e.g., only morphological analysis). 
The second goal focuses on the analysis of the data in a phylogenetic framework. This opens up different opportunities, such as (1) an estimation of historical processes of evolution (especially evolution of parasitism) associated with our observed data, simultaneously with an estimation of the phylogenetic tree; (2) improved insight into biogeographical patterns; (3) more-focused studies on character analysis and homology; (4) the use of morphology and molecules in species delimitation and identification; and (5) providing insight into the extent that single sequences can serve as proxies for functional entities. 


Profile 
Candidates should hold a Master degree before the starting date of the position and have a strong interest in taxonomy and phylogeny. 


Apply 
Please send your detailed c.v. to wim.bert at UGent before September 1, 2012. 
For more info: www. nematology . UGent .be , Wim Bert (++32(0)92645223) or wim.bert at ugent.be