Ph.D. Position, Evolutionary ecology of host-parasite

ETH Zurich, Institute of Integrative Biology (IBZ)

The Experimental Ecology Group (Paul Schmid-Hempel) is seeking to fill
a Ph.D. Position,(Evolutionary ecology of host-parasite systems) to
work on questions of host-parasite interactions using Bombus spp. and
theirparasites as the study system. In particular, the project would
investigate the natural diversity of host species and their infections
(of Crithidia bombi in particular).

Our questions ultimately relate to the co-evolutionary dynamics of the
host interactions with parasites, the epidemic processes in natural
populations, or the spread and effect of infectious parasites in
ecological communities of host species. We work with molecular tools
but the project would focus on ecological questions. In particular,
little is known about the occurrence, distribution and correlates of
parasitism in the diverse sets of Bombus species. The project aims at
gathering this knowledge and using it to test some concepts of
ecological theory and host-parasite coevolution. Problems of species
invasion might be a particular topic in this context. Although the
prime motivation is questions of basic importance, the project is
embedded in a larger set of studies conducted at ETH addressing the
significance of ecological and genetic variation in natural systems
with respect to disease, climatic change and environmental
degradation.

The ideal candidate likes to work with this system, has an interest at
the crossroads of ecology, genetics and evolution and a background in
any of the relevant fields. Salaryand other conditions in accordance
with local regulations. The normal duration of aPhD at ETH is 3 years.

Special conditions for acceptance into the PhD program ofETH may
apply; a degree equivalent to a M.Sc. is normally required. Preferred
starting date autumn 2009 or shortly thereafter. Please send
applications, with CV, names of referees, and short statement of your
interests in this position to Prof. Paul Schmid-Hempel, preferably by
email (psh@env.ethz.ch). Screening of applications will start 31
August 2009 or until post is filled. For more information, you may
check our web page (www.eco.ethz.ch).