Enhancing market access for New Zealand logs and developing new fumigation schedules with methyl bromide

A significant proportion of New Zealand's expanding volume of pine (Pinus radiata) log exports are fumigated with methyl bromide before shipment to meet the phytosanitary requirements of the importing countries. However, with methyl bromide now recognised internationally as an ozone-depleting substance, it's vital that we test the feasibility of reducing methyl bromide rates through the development of a new fumigation schedule.

Based within Plant & Food Research's Disinfestation Team, in Palmerston North (New Zealand), the PhD student will be supervised by Dr Adriana Najar-Rodriguez, an entomologist with international experience on insect behavior, physiology and control and Dr Matthew Hall, a leading expert in fumigation research and chemical qualitative and quantitative analysis.

Candidates will have a degree, preferably at Masters level, in a discipline relevant to postharvest disinfestation, entomology and insect control with fumigants or pesticides. Prior experience in data collection and statistical analysis, including modelling, and willingness to work with fumigants is essential. Basic experience in rearing insects, safe chemical handling and good laboratory practices would be of benefit.

The three year studentship offers an annual stipend of 27,000 NZD per annum and covers university fees and operating costs. It is important that candidates be able to fulfil the requirements for initial and continued enrolment in a PhD programme at a university to be agreed upon with Plant & Food Research.

For registration details and to apply for this position please visit https://careers.sciencenewzealand.org/plant-and-food-research/plant-and-food-research-jobs

Please search vacancy number 9106