Master/Diploma Students position

Topic: System theoretical characterization of steady states in a plant metabolic network

Summary: The metabolism of higher plants represents a highly complex network. This complexity is mainly due to a large number of interlinked metabolites, numerous regulatory instances and a high degree of subcellular compartmentalization. Mathematical modelling has proved to be an attractive method to analyse such complex networks. However, due to experimental limitations it is often not possible to provide the adequate set of system parameters being necessary to fulfil all theoretical demands unambiguously. To overcome this limitation, theoretical concepts have been developed allowing for the estimation and approximation of in vivo system behaviour. One of these methods is based on the representation of a metabolic network by a system of ordinary differential equations (ODEs) and the characterization of its steady states. Based on previous studies on mathematical modelling of the primary carbohydrate metabolism in Arabidopsis thaliana we are now offering a Master/Diploma Thesis in the field of Mathematical Modeling. We are looking for a highly motivated candidate to work on the analysis of plant metabolic networks. The ideal candidate should have basic knowledge in biochemistry and/or mathematical modelling.

For more information about the project please contact:
Thomas Naegele or Wolfram Weckwerth