The Scholarship

Applications are invited from outstanding, enthusiastic graduates with a background in Ecology, Entomology, Geochemistry, Forestry or a related discipline to undertake research towards a doctoral degree (PhD) at University College Dublin (National University of Ireland, Dublin) on a project titled:
Development of novel ‘green’ pesticides for commercial forestryplantations.

This project will create a novel protection strategy against herbivorous insect pests for woody plants with particular reference to coniferous plantation species. The approach will exploit the anti-feedant properties of selected natural mineral elements. The bioavailability of these elements from different soils and amendments will be assessed using geochemical and isotopic methods. Then, the effects of enhanced mineral levels in tree seedlings on feeding destroy by Pine weevils (Hylobius abietis) and seedling survival will be assessed under controlled conditions and in commercial field plantations in collaboration with the industry partner, Coillte. The project will involve analytical, experimental and field-based research work. The project will also provide training opportunities in innovation and know-how transfer.

The student will be supervised jointly by Dr. Olaf Schmidt (School of Agriculture, Food Science and Veterinary Medicine) and Prof. Frank McDermott (School of Geological Sciences). The worth of this bursary is Euro 16,000 (tax exempt) per year for up to 4 years, commencing in September 2010. The Registration Fee for European Union citizens will even be paid.

Application Procedure
Candidates who need to apply for this position are requested to download, complete and submit the dedicated application form for this project, obtainable at:

http://www.ucd.ie/graduatestudies/prospectivestudents/studentshipsscholarships/phdopportunities/

Further details are contained in this form.

Closing date for receipt of applications: Monday, 9th August 2010.
Recruitment will continue after this date until the position is filled.

Application Deadline : 9 August 2010

Web Link

http://www.ucd.ie/graduatestudies/prospectivestudents/studentshipsscholarships/phdopportunities/

http://www.ucd.ie/graduatestudies/prospectivestudents/studentshipsscholarships/phdopportunities/