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Presentation: Prof. Sebastian Soyk is looking for a Graduate Assistant in Plant Genetics to join his research group at the Department for Molecular Plant Biology (DBMV) at the University of Lausanne. The Soyk lab investigates molecular mechanisms that regulate stem cell differentiation in plants and studies how stem cell activities changed during crop domestication.
Job information: Expected start date in position : 01.04.2023 / or to be agreed; Contract length : 1 year, renewable 2 x 2 years, maximum 5 years; Activity rate : 85%; Workplace : Lausanne-Dorigny
Your responsibilities
The candidate will join a highly-motivated and diverse group of researchers who study the genetics and genomics of crop domestication using tomato and related species as model system. The successful candidate will perform research on a project to investigate variation in gene regulatory sequences in the context of crop domestication. More specifically, the candidate will identify genome-wide changes in regulatory sequences that affected flowering during tomato domestication and engineer novel regulatory sequence variation by genome editing.
The candidate will conduct cutting-edge approaches in genomics, bioinformatics, and molecular biology, including novel applications of next-generation sequencing and precision genome editing. The project will include wet and dry lab experiments, and activities in growth chambers and greenhouses. The candidate is expected to closely collaborate with other group members and external collaborators.
At least half of the working time will be dedicated to the doctoral research. The rest of the time will be dedicated to various academic functions including some teaching assistance of undergraduate biology students.
Your qualifications:
We are a young research group looking for highly-motivated and talented candidates with a strong interest in gene expression regulation, genome structure and function, and crop evolution. Applicants should hold a MSc degree (or equivalent) with a strong background in biology and have an interest in plant science.
Advanced knowledge of genetics and molecular biology is essential, together with a motivation to learn and develop new methods and techniques. Experience in genome editing and bioinformatics would be advantageous. Candidates should be excited about science, highly organized, and capable of working independently and within the team, and are expected to be fluent in English (spoken and written).
What the position offers you; The Soyk lab is hosted at the Department for Plant Molecular Biology (DBMV) at the University of Lausanne (UNIL), a vibrant, well-funded institute with access to state-of-the-art core facilities for genomics, proteomics, imaging, and bioinformatics.
Embedded in the broader Lausanne research environment that includes two schools of higher education (UNIL, EPFL) and a cluster of biotechcompanies flourishing in the larger Leman lake area, we offer a great working place in a multicultural, diversified and dynamic academic environment. The PhD student will be enrolled in the doctoral school of the Faculty of Biology and Medicine. Contact for further information; Informal enquiries should be sent to Prof. Sebastian Soyk : sebastian.soyk@unil.ch
Your application
Deadline : until filled
Please submit your full application comprising: (1) short motivation letter detailing your research interests and experience, (2) CV, (3) a copy of your Master’s degree certificate (or equivalent), and (4) contact details for 2-3 academic referees.