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Kuleuven Departement Biologie zoekt Doctoraatsstudent
Open PhD position Department Biology
University of Leuven, Belgium
Orchid diversification and mycorrhizal associations
In the context of a recently approved ERC project we are looking for a motivated PhD student who is keen to work on orchid mycorrhizal associations.
Background:
The Orchidaceae is the most diverse family of angiosperms with an estimated number of over 24,000 species. It has long been believed that co-evolution with pollinating animals has played an instrumental role in the unparalleled diversification of the Orchidaceae. Many orchid species, however, are generalists with respect to their pollinators. Because the availability of a suitable mycorrhizal fungus is crucial to orchid establishment, it has recently been suggested that diversification might also have been driven by irregular fungal distributions, combined with high mycorrhizal specificities.
Evidence for this hypothesis is still lacking, and at present, very little is known about the nature and specificity of orchid mycorrhizal associations.
Study/Research project:
The general aim of the proposed study is to reveal the potential role of mycorrhizal associations in orchid diversification by
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elucidating the nature and specificity of orchid mycorrhizal associations
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investigating the availability of orchid mycorrhizae in natural populations
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studying the role of mycorrhizal associations in acting as a post-mating reproductive barrier.
The study will be conducted across the whole distribution area of c. 20 species of the genus Dactylorhiza. You will test for mycorrhizal specificity and investigate evolutionary trajectories of orchid mycorrhizal associations. You will use spatial point pattern analyses combined with seed baiting techniques to detect spatial variation in fungal availability in natural populations.
This project combines intensive periods of field work with lab work to get a coherent picture of the mycorrhizal fungi associating with Dactylorhiza species. Since field work will be conducted across much of Europe (mainly in Italy, Spain, France), it is absolutely necessary for the candidate to have a driver’s license and to have the disposal of a car.
Your assets:
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Master diploma in Biology or Bioscience Engineering, or an equivalent diploma
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Scientific, critical attitude
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Strong communication and social skills
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Able to work independently
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Proficient in English
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A valid driver’s license and the availability of a car
For more information and to apply, please contact or send your motivation letter and CV to Hans Jacquemyn, Principal Investigator (hans.jacquemyn[a]bio.kuleuven.be).
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