How do traits determine invasiveness among populations and species?

As our climate undergoes significant shifts, and global trade continues to intensify, the movement of biological species is a critical concern. Some species are expanding their ranges locally, tracking temperature changes, and/or invading entirely new environments. Biological invasions pose a threat to native biodiversity, economies, and human health. In Aotearoa New Zealand, exotic pests have infiltrated more than 96% of our landmass, with annual costs of $1.8-2.3 billion on pastoral farms alone. As kaitiaki (guardians), it is our responsibility to protect our ecosystems from both current and future invasive species. However, identifying the underlying characteristics that determine invasiveness (i.e., extent of invasive species spread) remains challenging.

The Invasomics Lab at the University of Waikato has established a robust model blowfly system to elucidate the factors that determine species invasiveness.

We seek a PhD applicant (start date prior to 30 June 2025; fully funded PhD position – $NZD30,000 p/a stipend plus tuition fees) to explore questions in this system, with a major focus towards determining whether individuals exhibit competitive superiority across multiple invasion-related traits to enable their invasion success, and whether such factors can be manipulated to influence invasion outcomes.

The successful applicant will have:

• Knowledge of at least one of: invasion biology, genomics, ecology;
• Experience or interest in developing skills in the phenotyping and analysis of life history traits (particularly in insects);
• Interest/experience in fieldwork;
• An ability to work well alongside a fantastic team towards common objectives.

The candidate will be based at the University of Waikato under the Chief Supervision of Dr. Ang McGaughran and be co-supervised and/or mentored by Dr. Chrissie Painting (University of Waikato), Prof. Ruth Hufbauer (Colorado State University, USA), and Dr. Nathan Butterworth (Monash University, Australia).

Hamilton is an inland city in the North Island of Aotearoa New Zealand. It is bisected by the Waikato River and is the country’s fourth-most populous city. Within close proximity are some of the best surf and swimming beaches in the country, as well as beautiful cultural areas and walking tracks. The University of Waikato is a leading New Zealand university, with the Hamilton campus offering modern facilities, vibrant student life, and easy access to nature and recreation. Our landmark new building – the Pā – is a special feature of campus life that reinforces our distinctiveness and the interconnectedness of our campus community.

Visit our website for more information about Te Aka Mātuatua School of Science.

Eligibility

The general Higher Degrees admission criteria apply.

The application process

To apply for this opportunity to do exciting, cutting-edge research with real-world applications, please send an interest statement and CV to: [email protected].

Enquiries at the same email address are welcome. The position will stay open until a suitable candidate is found, with the applications first reviewed in late September.