I thought I’d pass along a few entomology graduate positions that have been posted for universities in Ontario:
Pollination Ecology of Dacus carota (Umbelliferae) – M.Sc. – Dr. Fiona F. Hunter, Brock University, St. Catherines
Dr. Fiona F. Hunter has funding available to support one MSc graduate student for 2 years (effective immediately) to study the pollination ecology of Daucus carota. This includes both edible carrot and its wild relative, Queen Anne’s Lace. Daucus carota is characterized by having a dark central floret. Darwin, himself, speculated that the dark central floret may now be functionless and possibly represents a trait that has persisted long after its original function has been lost. Other researchers have postulated that the dark central floret serves to attract pollinators to the flower. This MSc opportunity will be aimed at determining what insects are common visitors to edible carrot and to Queen Anne’s Lace, how these insects affect seed set, and whether the dark central floret is adaptive or not. The student who undertakes this project will have a strong background in ecology and evolution, entomology and biostatistics.
If you are interested in this MSc opportunity, please send a covering letter, cv, unofficial transcript and a statement of interest to: Dr. Fiona F. Hunter, Department of Biological Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, L2S 3A1 or email the documents to fhunter@brocku.ca
Speciation and Mating Systems in the Arctic Butterflies (genus Oeneis) Ph.D. – Dr. Gard W. Otis, University of Guelph
Macoun’s Arctic (Oeneis macounii) and other butterfly species in the genus Oeneis are reported to have biennial life cycles, with individuals requiring two years to develop from egg to adult. Preliminary evidence indicates that this 2‐year life cycle is obligatory in O. macounii. This presents the possibility that even‐year populations are reproductively isolated from odd‐year populations. The central question is: has allochrony caused by their two year life cycle resulted in genetic and morphological divergence between even‐ and odd‐year populations? This question will be explored through laboratory sequencing and computer analyses of both nuclear and mitochondrial DNA regions as well as landmark‐based morphometric analyses. In addition, field studies will lead to a better understanding of adult ecology, dispersal, and male‐male competition in one or more lekking species.
Applicant must have a strong interest and background in ecology and evolution as well as excellent writing abilities. Experience with entomology, DNA amplification and sequencing, animal behaviour and/or biostatistics will be strengthen your application. You must meet the minimum conditions of NSERC Scholars (i.e. citizen or permanent resident of Canada; minimum 80% average in your last two years of study). Completion of an MSc degree is preferred, but students with an honours BSc degree and very strong academic record will be considered.
If you are interested in this PhD opportunity, please e‐mail or mail a covering letter, cv/resume, unofficial transcript and a statement of interest to: Dr. Gard W. Otis, School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, gotis@uoguelph.ca