Genetic and Hybrid Characterization of Water Chestnut in the US

The purpose of this project is to investigate whether there is potential for naturalized species of water chestnut in North America can hybridize. Objectives: Objectives will include genetic analysis of potential hybridization of both species of Trapa established in the US. Specifically: Objective 1. DNA will be extracted from samples of suspected hybrids and their parents provided by USACE Objective 2. DNA will be processed and analyzed by amplified leaf polymorphism loci (AFLP) or next generation sequencing to determine that hybridization has occurred when compared with parental DNA. Use of phylogenies and/or networks will be required to determine the relatedness of hybrid offspring to parent material; relatedness of North American introduced population hybrids to native accessions may be included. Successful applicant should have expert knowledge of molecular characterization of aquatic plants including experience with genetic identifications of macrophytic hybrids, and biogeographical characterizations for water chestnut, in addition to a record that demonstrates research experience with collecting, analyzing, and reporting data in national and international scientific communities. The candidate will be required to prepare a Statement of Work and Work Plan regarding the research to be conducted. The candidates will also be required to submit four (4) quarterly status reports and one (1) annual report each year of the contract to provide updates on and interpretations of the molecular characterization of water chestnut for this project and how it relates to morphological differences observed in populations in the northeastern U.S.