PhD in Electromagnetic Entomology

Ghent University – Intec WAVES Research Group

Ghent University is one of the most important education and research institutions in the Low Countries, ranked 71 in the Academic Ranking of World Universities (http://www.shanghairanking.com/). On a daily basis, over 15,000 staff members and 49,000 students implement its motto "Dare to Think". Ghent University's mission statement is characterized by qualitative education, internationally renowned research and a pluralistic social responsibility. 
The WAVES research group (http://www.waves.intec.ugent.be/) is the expertise centre for Bio-electromagnetics and wireless propagation of the Department of Information Technology of Ghent University/IMEC. 

Context

Insects are the foundation of all terrestrial life due to their diversity and ecological role, their influence on agriculture, natural resources and human health. At the same time, insects are most vulnerable to human activities affecting the environment, which has already led to a dramatic decrease in their abundance and species richness. One of these activities that potentially plays a role in this phenomenon are emissions of Radio-Frequency (RF) electromagnetic fields. These fields are used in telecommunication networks to enable (wireless) telecommunication between billions of users worldwide. Electromagnetic fields are emitted into the environment and consequently living organisms, including insects, are exposed to these fields. It is currently unknown: (1) how these electromagnetic fields interact with insects and (2) at what levels these interactions might have biological effects in insects. You will answer these questions. 

What you will do

Your main tasks:

• Create digital models of insects to simulate these electromagnetic interactions
• Measure electromagnetic properties of insects using RF equipment
• Rear Insects under exposure to electromagnetic fields to study their development
• Perform measurements of environmental exposure of insects in the field

What we do for you

We offer a full-time paid PhD position for 1 year, extended up to 4 years after positive evaluation, in an inspiring and dynamic work environment. You will be supported by our team of experienced researchers and (international) collaborators. You will enjoy a number of benefits, such as a wide range of training and education opportunities, 35 days of holiday leave (on an annual basis for a full-time job) supplemented by annual fixed bridge days, a bicycle allowance and eco vouchers. 

Who you are

• Candidates with a Master degree in electrical engineering, physics engineering, biomedical engineering, applied physics, biophysics, biology or a related Master of Science degree qualify for this research job.
• Experience with the research topic not necessary, but interest in (insect) biology on the one hand and physics on the other hand is a plus.
• Willingness to travel (up to 20%) to experimental sites in Greece and Cyprus.
• You like to work in an international team of researchers with different scientific backgrounds and you will take ownership of your research.
• You have a high proficiency in oral and written English.

Interested?

If you are interested in this position, please send your application letter and cv to: 

Arno Thielens
Ghent University
iGent, Technologiepark-Zwijnaarde 126, 9052 GENT
Email: arno.thielens@ugent.be
Questions concerning the position can also be sent to this email address.