Advisor: Ralf Sommer: PhD Program: Tübingen International PhD Program in the Biological Sciences
Location: Max Planck Institute for Biology, Department of Integrative Evolutionary Biology
Research project: The Department of Integrative Evolutionary Biology has an active research program studying the predatory model nematode Pristionchus pacificus with state-of-the-art facilities in molecular biology, biochemistry, nematode genetics, CRISPR-engineering, genomics, and bioinformatics. Our highly interdisciplinary research team works at the interphase between development, evolution and ecology. We investigate among others, the development and evolution of mouth-form plasticity with two alternative, predatory or bacterial feeding morphs.
We have recently discovered long-lasting transgenerational inheritance and epigenetics of diet-induced plasticity. A genetic screen for transgenerational inheritance-defective mutants identified a set of epigenetic factors and allows unprecedented studies of the associated molecular and biochemical mechanisms. We are now looking for a PhD student (m/f/d) to join the department and study transgenerational inheritance in P. pacificus.
Our requirements:
- hold, or expect to hold, a Masters (or Diplom) degree in a relevant subject. All prior degree work must be finished before the PhD start date.
- have experience in molecular biology, biochemistry and computational analyses.
- be able to show that your interests, skills and knowledge match well with your proposed area of doctoral research.
- be able to demonstrate a high level of written and spoken English.
- have strong motivation to work in international teams
We offer:
- Excellent facilities
- A fully funded research position (payment level according to E13 65% TVöD Bund). The salary includes all mandatory social insurance contributions for healthcare, unemployment, and retirement benefits
- Tailored support from your advisor and a thesis advisory committee
- Opportunities to visit international meetings to present your work
- Core and optional development opportunities to improve your scientific and transferable skills
- GRE General Test or GATE scores are required from applicants with degrees obtained outside the European Higher Education Area
- Multicultural environment with English as the working language
Successful candidates will join the International Max Planck Research School ‘From Molecules to Organisms’. To apply, please register and complete our online application form.
Application deadline: 5 September 2022
For further information about the research project, please contact Ralf J. Sommer: ralf.sommer@tuebingen.mpg.de