Evolutionary Morphogenesis

Job Description

Mammals evolved divergent architectures of placenta to receive nourishment from the mother during embryogenesis. In the Gerri lab, we seek to understand how the uterine microenvironment shapes the fetal-placental interface of various animals, by using early embryos and placental organoids. Our ultimate goal is to investigate how complex and diverse structures emerge to achieve similar functions.

The placenta is an essential organ for the success of mammalian reproduction. Even though the internal organs are structurally similar in the early embryonic stages across mammals, the placenta evolved strikingly different architectures. By taking a comparative approach, we aim to understand the mechanisms underlying how placenta became different from a morphological point of view, while retaining a similar function across species.

You can find more information about the lab here: https://gerrilab.org/

Your qualifications

We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher with enthusiasm and passion for evolutionary developmental biology.

The candidate should hold a PhD in a relevant discipline and, possibly, at least one-first author publication.

The candidate should be familiar with embryonic stem cell culture, quantitative (live) imaging and, ideally, light-sheet microscopy. We seek a person with experience in organoid culture and possibly mammalian embryo handling. Experience with Python or R programming, genome editing (transgenesis, CRISPR/Cas9), microfluidics would be an advantage.

Flexibility, team spirit, organizational and interpersonal skills with good knowledge of the English language are required.

Our offer

• We offer a diversified job in a young, international team in one of the most renowned research institutions worldwide
• Salary and social benefits will be in accordance with the regulations of the German TVöD Bund (salary agreement for public service employees, up to level E13).
• Discounted job ticket (VVO) and good public transport connections
• Support for a positive work-life balance, including assistance with family and childcare matters

The position is available immediately. The initial contract is for 2 years with the possibility of extension based upon mutual agreement.

Please submit your complete application by June 18 2023 by sending the following documents to gerri@mpi-cbg.de:

• a cover letter indicating the motivation to apply for this specific position,
• a CV including a publication list,
• a concise description of previous research accomplishments (<1 page), and
• contact details of at least 2 approachable academic referees.