When attacked by herbivorous insects, plants emit volatile compounds that attract natural enemies of the insects. The western corn rootworm induces the roots of many maize varieties to emit (E)-β-caryophyllene, which attracts entomopathogenic nematodes that infect and kill the voracious root pest.
This project aims to assess the effects of this volatile on other insects and their natural enemies. Since this project is confidential, more information will be given only after a first applicant’s selection.
The internship will combine behavioural ecology, molecular biology and metabolomics. The work involves close collaboration between the University of Neuchâtel and the Agroscope of Changins in SWITZERLAND.
Experiments and techniques:
- Insect behaviour assays and performance measurements
- Extraction of root and herbivore tissue
- Volatile collection and analysis by GC-MS / LC-MS
Candidate profile:
The candidate should have a strong interest in chemical ecology, insect behaviour and tritrophic interactions. Competences in behavioural assays and chromatographical techniques are an advantage. While most of the project is in French, basic oral skills in English are desired.
Furthermore, we expect good team spirit and willingness to travel within Switzerland.
Application:
Resume and cover letter, in English or French, to:
Christelle Robert,
Lab. of Fundamental and Applied Research in Chemical Ecology
University of Neuchâtel, Institute of Biology
CH-2009 Neuchâtel
SWITZERLAND
Tel: +41 32 718 31 62
E-Mail: christelle.robert@unine.ch
This project aims to assess the effects of this volatile on other insects and their natural enemies. Since this project is confidential, more information will be given only after a first applicant’s selection.
The internship will combine behavioural ecology, molecular biology and metabolomics. The work involves close collaboration between the University of Neuchâtel and the Agroscope of Changins in SWITZERLAND.
Experiments and techniques:
- Insect behaviour assays and performance measurements
- Extraction of root and herbivore tissue
- Volatile collection and analysis by GC-MS / LC-MS
Candidate profile:
The candidate should have a strong interest in chemical ecology, insect behaviour and tritrophic interactions. Competences in behavioural assays and chromatographical techniques are an advantage. While most of the project is in French, basic oral skills in English are desired.
Furthermore, we expect good team spirit and willingness to travel within Switzerland.
Application:
Resume and cover letter, in English or French, to:
Christelle Robert,
Lab. of Fundamental and Applied Research in Chemical Ecology
University of Neuchâtel, Institute of Biology
CH-2009 Neuchâtel
SWITZERLAND
Tel: +41 32 718 31 62
E-Mail: christelle.robert@unine.ch