Evolutionary and Applied Insights into Hazelnut Resistance to the Pre-Dispersal Seed Predator Curculio nucum L.

Scientific background
The hazelnut weevil (Curculio nucum L.) is the unique pre-dispersal seed predator of European hazelnuts (Corylus avellana L.), capable of infesting up to 80% of nuts [1]. Host and its predator have coevolved, and one key hypothesis is that the rate of shell hardening represents a host defence that creates a trade-off between resistance to the weevil and nut development [2]. Oviposition occurs within a narrow phenological window when the shell is penetrable; outside this window, larvae may fail to enter or become trapped inside the nut, creating an evolutionary dead end.
Goals
The intern will construct a phenology-based varietal risk matrix using degree-day accumulation and shell hardness dynamics, and quantify the evolutionary trade-off between defence and reproduction across cultivars. This framework will also provide actionable insights for IPM, including cultivar selection and timing of control measures.
Profil required
Strong interest in plant-insect interactions, coevolution and IPM. Prior practical experience is an advantage, particularly in using a penetrometer, performing insect dissections and conducting statistical analyses with R, or similar tools. A driving licence is required to access the field.