PhD Position – Plant Diversification Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich invites applications for a fully funded PhD position to investigate the impact of the Sunda-Sahul Biotic Exchange on plant diversification. The study will focus on Aglaia (Meliaceae), a genus of tropical trees with diverse fruit traits dispersed by different communities of animals. The project aims to understand whether the exchange drove diversification in Aglaia and the role of disperser communities in shaping fruit traits.
Summary Table:
| Position Type | Study Level | Study Area | Scholarship Description | Eligibility | Required Documents | How to Apply | Last Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PhD Position – Plant Diversification | MSc Degree | Plant Systematics, Evolution, Biogeography | Investigate the impact of the Sunda-Sahul Biotic Exchange on Aglaia fruit traits. Conduct phylogenomic research, fieldwork, and analyses. Collaborate internationally to explore diversification mechanisms. | MSc degree, English fluency, interest in biogeography, background in plant systematics and evolution. | Cover letter, CV, degree certificates, referees, publication list (if applicable). | Email application as a single PDF to Dr. Elizabeth Joyce (E.Joyce@Imu.de) with reference no. AGK231103. | December 15, 2023 |
Study Area: Plant Systematics, Evolution, Biogeography
Scholarship Description:
PhD Position – Plant Diversification Study (Ref no. AGK231103)
The PhD position explores the impact of the Sunda-Sahul Biotic Exchange on Aglaia plant diversification. The study involves constructing a phylogeny, fieldwork in Papua New Guinea and tropical Australia, and analyzing Aglaia fruit morphology and chemistry. The project aims to uncover the role of different disperser communities in driving the diversity of fruit traits in Aglaia.
Eligibility:
- MSc degree
- Fluency in English
- Interest in biogeography
- Background in plant systematics and evolution
- Experience in molecular phylogenetic and/or evolutionary analyses
- Previous fieldwork, lab work, morphology analysis, or bioinformatic skills are advantageous
Required Documents:
- Short cover letter (1-2 pages) explaining motivation
- CV with referees and publication list (if applicable)
- Certificate of completion and degree certificate (if not available, state in the cover letter)
How to Apply: Email the application documents as a single PDF to Dr. Elizabeth Joyce (E.Joyce@Imu.de) with the reference no. AGK231103 in the subject line.
Last Date: Applications close on 15 December 2023. For more information, contact Dr. Elizabeth Joyce (E.Joyce@Imu.de). This position is funded by the DFG.
