Unravelling seasonal dynamics of arthropod predator-prey networks by genomic approach in flower strip mediated rice agroecosystems

Predator-prey network forms the backbones of ecosystem, and detailed knowledge of predator-prey interaction can enhance understanding of the community and its supporting ecosystem service like pest control. Enhancing biological pest control effectiveness in rice production is critical for sustainable rice production. Flower strips have been implemented in rice paddy to enhance pest control. However, the seasonal dynamic of species level network of predator-prey interactions remained poorly understood. This research aims to investigate how flower strips affect the dynamic of species level arthropod predator-prey network, and how that further affect the efficiency of pest control in rice paddy by combining field experiment and biodiversity genomics analysis. This project represents the first attempt to investigate the time-series species level predator-prey network dynamics in flower strips. It will recommend practices to enhance pest control for sustainable, resilient rice production.

For more information about doctoral scholarship and PhD programme at Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU), please visit

https://www.xjtlu.edu.cn/en/admissions/global/entry-requirements/

https://www.xjtlu.edu.cn/en/admissions/global/fees-and-scholarship

Supervisors:

• Principal supervisor: Professor/Dr. Xueqing He (XJTLU)
• Co-supervisor: Professor/Dr. Min Tang (XJTLU)
• Co-supervisor: Professor/Dr. Johannes M H Knops (XJTLU)
• Co-supervisor: Professor/Dr. Alistair Darby (UoL)

Requirements:

The candidate should have a first class or upper second class honours degree, or a master’s degree (or equivalent qualification) in Ecology, Agroecology, Agronomy, Biology and other related majors.

Evidence of good spoken and written English is essential. The candidate should have an IELTS score of 6.5 or above, if the first language is not English. This position is open to all qualified candidates irrespective of nationality.

Degree:

The student will be awarded a PhD degree from the University of Liverpool (UK) upon successful completion of the program.

Funding:

The PhD studentship is available for three years subject to satisfactory progress by the student. The award covers tuition fees for three years (currently equivalent to RMB 99,000 per annum). It also provides up to RMB 16,500 to allow participation at international conferences during the period of the award. The scholarship holder is expected to carry out the major part of his or her research at XJTLU in Suzhou, China. However, he or she is eligible for a research study visit to the University of Liverpool up to six months, if this is required by the project.

How to Apply:

Interested applicants are advised to email [email protected] the following documents for initial review and assessment (please put the project title in the subject line).

• CV
• Two formal reference letters
• Personal statement outlining your interest in the position
• Certificates of English language qualifications (IELTS or equivalent)
• Full academic transcripts in both Chinese and English (for international students, only the English version is required)
• Verified certificates of education qualifications in both Chinese and English (for international students, only the English version is required)
• PDF copy of Master Degree dissertation (or an equivalent writing sample) and examiners reports available

Contact:

Please email [email protected] with a subject line of the PhD project title.

The principal supervisor’s profile is linked here:

https://scholar.xjtlu.edu.cn/en/persons/XueqingHe