PhD Studentship: Leaf Venation: The Open University invites applications for a PhD studentship titled “The Macroevolution of Leaf Venation,” aimed at exploring the evolutionary history of leaf venation networks in vascular plants. This research will integrate fossil and living specimens, utilizing phylogenetic comparative methods and network science to uncover the complexity of leaf structures and their evolutionary implications.
PhD Studentship: The Macroevolution of Leaf Venation
Designation
PhD Studentship in Plant Evolution and Ecology
| Research Area | Location | Eligibility/Qualification |
|---|---|---|
| Evolutionary Biology | The Open University, UK | – Strong background in Earth Science or Biology |
| Network Science | – Experience in fieldwork and laboratory research (desirable) | |
| Phylogenetics | – Interest in plant evolution | |
| – Driving license beneficial for fieldwork |
Job Description
The successful candidate will engage in a comprehensive research project that includes:
- Investigating living and fossil leaves in herbaria, including Kew Gardens.
- Collecting and imaging leaf specimens.
- Scoring leaf venation networks for key morphological traits.
- Constructing phylogenetic trees of vascular plants.
- Analyzing the relationship between venation architectures and herbivorous insect evolution.
- Presenting findings at international conferences and writing a thesis.
How to Apply
To apply for this studentship, applicants must:
- Complete and submit the CENTA Studentship Application Form (available for download).
- Provide a CV including the names of at least two (preferably three) referees.
- Email the application materials and the Open University application form to STEM-EEES-PHD@open.ac.uk by the specified deadline.
For further guidance, applicants should refer to the instructions available here.
Last Date to Apply
January 8th, 2025, by 23:59 GMT
Explore this exciting opportunity to contribute to the field of plant evolution while developing valuable skills in research and data analysis.
