About the function: You investigate cellular plant responses to abiotic stress conditions (a.o. cadmium exposure and hypoxia as a consequence of flooding) with a focus on the role of the signal molecule 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (ACC), which also serves as the precursor for the phytohormone ethylene.
You use a combination of molecular, genetic and biochemical methods in the model organism Arabidopsis thaliana. The main goal of the project is to study the connection between ACC signalling and redox processes. In the long term, the results of this project contribute to the development of strategies to improve plant growth and crop yield under stress conditions.
As a PhD student, you will prepare a doctoral dissertation and present your work in scientific publications and on (inter)national conferences. In addition, you will enroll in the ‘Doctoral School of Sciences & Technology’ and participate in teaching activities in the department of Biology at UHasselt
You will contribute to the supervision of practical sessions and exercises in the Biology and Biomedical Sciences curricula and the supervision of students during their internships in the lab.
About you:
- You have obtained a Master degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Biomedical Sciences, Bioengineering (or equivalent).
- You are collegial and can work well in a team.
- You are fluent in written and oral communication in English.
- You are able to clearly present and report project results.
- You have basic knowledge in molecular biology and biochemistry.
- You are prepared to update your knowledge and skills through short (inter)national stays if this is necessary for the research.
- You take initiative and have a critical mindset.
- Experience in plant research is a plus.
Our offer:
You will be appointed and paid as PhD student.
You will be appointed for 2×2 years (after positive evaluation).
Apply for this position: The selection procedure consists of a preselection based on application file and an interview.
Apply up to 27.06.2023
For substantive questions, send an e-mail to ann.cuypers@uhasselt.be. For questions about the selection procedure, please email jobs@uhasselt.be.