We study the contribution of the microbiome and symbiosis with microorganisms to the success of insect pests in agroecosystems, and the potential to manipulate these interactions for pest control purposes. In our current research, we aim to characterize host-plant mechanisms that affect the transmission of essential bacteria from female to offspring, and to understand the functional adaptation of oviposition behavior for securing this transmission.
Requirements:
Curiosity, motivation, critical thinking. an experience in entomological / microbiological research is an advantage
you will get experience with: We employ insect bioassays, microbiome NGS sequencing, biochemical analyses, and molecular and classical microbiology to examine how microbes affect insect phenotypes and behavior in agroecosystems.
See yourself fit? send your CV to Dr. Michael Ben Yosef via michaelb@volcani.agri.gov.il