PhD student with a strong interest in the genetics/genomics of adaptation and plant-herbivore interactions

A PhD position is available at the department of Crop Protection for a motivated PhD student to work on a research project investigating the genetic basis of adaptation in a polyphagous pest. This is a full-time position for 4 years with the possibility to obtain a doctoral degree. The PhD candidate will work in the research group of Prof Van Leeuwen which is specialized in molecular toxicology and the genomics of adaptation in mite pests. The candidate must be free to start October 1st 2017.

Background.

Spider mites are important crop pests with a remarkable evolutionary potential to adapt to a vast array of different host plants and chemicals used for their control (acaricides). However, the factors that determine such an enormous flexibility have not yet been uncovered. We have previously extensively studied transcriptional responses associated with both host-plant adaptation and acaricide resistance in the two-spotted spider mite Tetranychus urticae. This has revealed an unexpected and broad overlap in gene-expression patterns. However, the genetic drivers of the observed transcriptional responses are still largely unknown. For example, the role of allelic variation, copy number variation, and regulatory changes has not yet been investigated in any generalist herbivore.

The main goal of this research project is therefore to go beyond gene expression associations, and identify genomic loci that underlie adaptation in an extremely generalist. We have previously developed a population-based bulk segregant analysis method that allowed to map monogenic, recessive traits to a relatively small genomic locus. Based on our experience with T. urticae in genomic mapping, we propose to use a similar setup and methodology to set the first paces in elucidating more complex cases of adaptation, such as adaptation to different plants, and some cases of multi-factorial acaricide resistance. In addition, given the previously observed plasticity of the responses relevant for adaptation, we will assess on a genome-wide scale which loci are regulated in cis- versus trans. Together, the project will generate important insights in the genomics and genetics of adaptation in a polyphagous herbivore.

Profile of the candidate

We look for an enthusiastic and ambitious PhD student with a strong interest in the genetics/genomics of adaptation and plant-herbivore interactions. The candidate is expected to have a background in molecular biology and should hold a Master Degree (or equivalent) in Bioscience Engineering, Biotechnology, Biology or a related subject. The candidate should have a high level of proficiency in English which is sufficient to communicate effectively with colleagues. At the end of this 3-4 year doctoral research position, a Ph.D. thesis must be written to obtain the degree of Doctor in Applied Biological Sciences.