University of Pretoria Masters Research Scholarship - South Africa

Published: 19 Apr 2021 1,614 views

Application of protein baits in the form of sprays or stations forms the core of fruit fly control measures in citrus and other fruit orchards. Recommendations on application, distribution and amount of protein bait are based on general patterns of behaviour of a few fruit fly species. However, fruit fly species respond differently to protein bait, which may be because of different protein requirements (resulting in different responses to baits with different protein contents) and variation in rates of reproductive maturation.

Higher volumes of bait spray are recommended for bigger tree canopies, which leads to the question of whether more bait units per area is better for fruit fly population suppression. This project will establish the interacting roles of protein bait location, application density and fruit fly physiological state on response by Ceratitis capitata, Ceratitis cosyra and Bactrocera dorsalis.

The project is based in the Department of Zoology and Entomology at the University of Pretoria under the

supervision of Prof. Chris Weldon and Dr Aruna Manrakhan (Citrus Research International).

University of Pretoria Masters Scholarship

Benefits of University of Pretoria Masters Scholarship

The project is offered on a full-time basis only. The MSc candidate must begin the project before the end of June 2021 and submit the dissertation for examination by the end of 2022. A generous bursary is available to reimburse registration and tuition fees, and cover living expenses. Research costs will also be covered.

Requirements for University of Pretoria Masters Scholarship

1. BSc Honours or BScAgric degree in Biology, Crop Protection, Entomology or similar with final year grade of at least 60%
2. Knowledge of the principles and practice of integrated pest management
3. Willing and comfortable to work in the field for extended periods of time
4. Strong communication skills in oral and written English
5. Patience and attention to detail
6. Based in or able to relocate to Pretoria
7. A valid driver’s license

Application Deadline

How to Apply