The Queensland fruitfly (Bactrocera tryoni) is one of the biggest threats to New Zealand agriculture, for which it exists really few effective methods of control. In collaboration with partners in Australia and New Caledonia, we are investigating the source of attractive odours to develop a synthetic lure specifically targeting females.
With electrophysiological techniques such as electroantennography (EAG) combined with chemical analysis using gas-chromatography coupled to mass-spectrometry (GC-MS), bioactive compounds will be identified. Behavioural experiments in the lab and field trials will be carried out to assess the attraction of identified odours on females.
This is a great opportunity to learn more about chemical ecology and behavioural ecology of a worldwide common pest and acquire skills in different techniques in this area. In addition, this work will be done in collaboration with teams in Australia (Sydney) and New Caledonia (IAC), so the student is expected to spend time in those different locations (probably 2 months in NZ, 2 months in Aus and 2 months in NC).
The student will be supervised by entomologists and chemical ecologists at the New Zealand Plant&Food Research in Lincoln. Lincoln is located 30km from Christchurch, the main city in the South Island, near the ocean and on the foothills of the majestic Southern Alps.
Date of start: Flexible. Min. 6 months
Location: Lincoln, Canterbury, South Island, New Zealand
Salary: No salary or stipend is provided but all expenses for field work abroad will be covered.
Requirement: Eligibility to work in New Zealand (student or working visa). Driving license.
Conditions: Student currently enrolled in a University (Master 2 level) or last year of Engineering school with a background in biology, chemistry or agriculture. Must be an obligatory internship for your diploma. Previous experience with behavioural study and insects preferable. A strong interest in pursuing study in chemical ecology or integrated pest management. Abilities to work meticulously in the laboratory and in the field. Independent and organized. Fluent in French and English and willing to travel.
Please send a detailed CV with courses attended and relevant experiences, as well as a Resume explaining your motivation for the project. Provide two referees contact. Sent to: flore.mas@plantandfood.co.nz
