[Pollinator] PhD position

[Gegear, Robert J.]

The Gegear and Ryder labs in the Biology and Biotechnology Department at Worcester Polytechnic Institute are jointly recruiting a PhD student interested in studying cognitive aspects of pollinator-plant interactions.   We are particularly interested in applicants looking to use a combination of computer modelling and laboratory experimentation to study mechanisms of adaptive decision-making in bumblebee pollinators.  The PhD project will be part of a larger NSF-funded interdisciplinary project focused on the development of a bio-inspired wireless vehicular communication system.  Successful applicants are guaranteed two years of full funding through the grant and additional funding through teaching assistantships.
Prospective PhD students should have experience conducting independent behavioral research on insects, preferably social bees.  Although ideal candidates would also have experience in the design and implementation of computer simulations, candidates with enthusiasm and interest in developing modelling expertise are welcome to apply.  Students will apply  to the Biology and Biotechnology graduate program (https://www.wpi.edu/academics/bbt.html), located at the Life Sciences and Bioengineering Center (LSBC) at Gateway Park, a state-of-the art, interdisciplinary research facility that opened Spring 2007. Located in Worcester, MA, one hour west of Boston, WPI is one of the nation's oldest technological universities and a highly selective private university.  U.S. News and World Report consistently ranks WPI among the top national universities and recently placed WPI in its top 30 for faculty resources.
Interested applicants should contact either Dr. Robert J. Gegear (rgegear at wpi.edu) or Dr. Elizabeth Ryder (ryder at wpi.edu).  Please include your CV, unofficial transcripts, and a brief description of your research interests and goals.   For questions about the graduate program, please email Dr. Reeta Prusty-Rao (rpr at wpi.edu).  To enrich education through diversity, WPI is an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer.

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