Topic: Genomic insights into whiteflies: from taxonomy to sustainable pest control (WEAPON).
Dates: 1 October 2025 – 30 September 2028
CBGP supervisors: D. Santos Garcia & D. Ouvrard (ANSES)

This PhD project aims to clarify high-level relationships and resolve key taxonomic questions in whiteflies using phylogenomic approaches. It will develop a rapid identification method based on a panel of nuclear genes. Metabolic interactions between whiteflies and their obligate symbionts, as well as horizontally acquired genes involved in symbiotic functions and the evasion of plant defences, will be identified and studied as potential targets for pest control. In addition, the project will investigate the ability of poorly studied whitefly species to act as vectors of plant viruses.