Postdoctoral and PhD positions: MPI for Chemical Ecology 1327 views

The Department of Molecular Ecology at Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology is inviting applications for multiple Postdoctoral and PhD positions for a project “Does Nicotiana attenuata make adaptive mate-choice decisions and if so, how does it do it?” under Prof. Ian Baldwin.

About the project:

• The project is open for creative biologists and chemists and independence to utilize the tools of this remarkable molecular/ecological toolbox to explore hypotheses about the mechanisms and functional consequences of mate-choice in N. attenuata.
• The aim is to understand the relationship between the post-pollination ethylene burst and the activity of S-RNase I/II in natural accessions and utilize a MAGIC-RIL population that captures a majority of the genetic diversity of this species, to conduct a forward genetic analysis of the mate-selection mechanisms.
• A 24-port laser photoacoustic spectrometer capable of high-throughput quantifications of stylar ethylene emissions as well as stable transgenic plants with silenced ethylene signaling and S-RNAse activity and a virus-induced gene silencing toolbox for testing the function of candidate genes are available to support the research.
• To understand the adaptive function of these mate choice decisions and are evaluating if the offspring of selected mates survive in the seedbank differently than do non-selected mates and are interested in uncovering traits that might be sexually selected and important for the survival of seeds in the hostile below-ground environment.

Duration: 3-year Postdoctoral and PhD positions

Requirements:

• A PhD in plant sciences, with strong skills in molecular biology and analytical chemistry; an inquisitive mind;
• Excellent verbal and written communication skill
• A publication track record
• Experience in modern microscopy and proteomics and/or small molecule metabolomics would be a plus.

How to apply

• Apply online and attach the following:
• CV
• Summary of previous research experience
• Statement of research interests
• Short statement how he/she would take advantage of the N. attenuata toolbox
• Contact information for at least two references
• The positions are available immediately and will remain open until filled.