The Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knöll Institute - in cooperation with the Friedrich Schiller University and the Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology are offering an international graduate training program. The International Leibniz Research School (ILRS Jena) gives doctoral researchers the possibility to prepare for their PhD exam in an ambitious program providing excellent research conditions.
We invite applications for a PhD Student Position (Ref.No. ILRS_05/2013)
Diatom pheromones - structure and function of communication mediators of unicellular algae
Diatoms are unicellular algae that are often dominant in marine and freshwater environments. They form the base of aquatic food webs and also structure biofilms. With their impressive primary production they contribute significantly to the global CO2 budget. Due to their unique biomineralized cell wall, diatoms become smaller during each successive round of asexual cell division. Once a critical size is reached, diatoms have to rely on sexual reproduction during which maximal cell size is restored. Despite the central role of sexual reproduction in the life cycle of these organisms, little is known about the regulation of sexual events and chemical communication involved in these processes. We have recently identified a first diatom pheromone that mediates mate finding in these unicellular algae. The identification process was successfully supported by a novel metabolomics based approach that is currently developed in the group.
The work within this project will be carried out along two major lines. One focus will be the metabolomics / bioassay guided identification of other mating pheromones in the model alga Seminavis sp. as well as pheromones in other species. This will answer fundamental questions about evolution of pheromone chemistry as well as of speciation within biofilms. A special focus will be the toxic microalga Pseudonitzschia sp. Insight into its pheromone chemistry will allow to manipulate and control the formation of toxic biofilms. Concepts for the pheromone mediated manipulation of this species will be evaluated. Further, we will pair our chemical analytical efforts with ongoing transcriptome studies of the diatoms in question to learn more about the regulation and control of the mating system in diatoms. The practical work within this project will include metabolomics of microalgae, extraction and structure elucidation of pheromones using Mass Spectrometry and NMR techniques, work with the cultures (sexualization, bioassay, larger scale culturing) as well as close interaction with the transcriptome working group. During exchange visits at Ugent (Prof. Dr. Wim Vyvermans lab) the candidate will also get firsthand experience with RT-PCR and transcriptomics techniques. Further reading: Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. 2013, 52, 854 -857.
The ILRS is part of the 'Jena School for Microbial Communication' (JSMC) which has been established in 2006 as an umbrella organisation of three existing Research Training Groups. The JSMC is funded by the German Excellence Initiative.
We expect:
- a Master's degree (or equivalent) in Natural or Life Sciences. Research at ILRS is centred around "Microbial and Biomolecular Interactions". Candidates about to earn their degree are welcome to apply.
- high motivation and interest to join one of the research areas of ILRS
- an integrative and cooperative personality
- very good communication skills in English
We offer:
- a top-level research environment
- efficient supervision by a team of advisors
- a comprehensive mentoring program (cf. Program of Study)
- courses in state-of-the-art technologies and soft skills
- strong communication and interaction between the involved institutions
- Jena - City of Science: innovative business activities, successful scientific centres and a vibrant cultural scene around the famous Friedrich Schiller University
The three-year PhD position is available starting from August 2013. Salary will be paid according to TV-L (salary agreement for public service employees). HKI is an equal opportunity employer.
Further information:
Prof. Dr. Georg Pohnert, PI georg.pohnert@uni-jena.de
Dr. Christine Vogler, ILRS Coordinator ilrs@hki-jena.de
The application process is handled exclusively online, via the website of the Graduate School of Excellence 'Jena School for Microbial Communication (JSMC)'. For the first step please acquaint yourself with the scientific projects offered on this website
www.jsmc.uni-jena.de/phd-program/fellowship-application/vacant-projects/
Then follow the instructions and thoroughly complete the online application form.
For more information about the ILRS Jena, please visit www.ilrs.hki-jena.de
Deadline for application: May 1st, 2013
Successful applicants will be invited to attend a recruitment meeting in Jena (scheduled for the end of June/beginning of July).
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