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Ph.D. in insect developmental genetics and ‘omics (Panfilio Lab, Germany)

Posted by , on 3 February 2025

Job type:

Location: University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany

Closing Date: 26 February 2025

A Scientific Researcher position (suitable to achieve a Ph.D. qualification) is immediately available in the Panfilio Lab for developmental genetics and molecular evolution research in insects.

We investigate gene expression and function in embryos (e.g., RNA-seq, RNAi, molecular cloning), with a strong live-cell imaging microscopy component, embedded in a framework of comparative genomics and environmental interactions. Our research species are the flour beetle Tribolium castaneum and the milkweed bug Oncopeltus fasciatus.

We focus on the lifetime tissue biology of the extraembryonic tissues as protective, barrier epithelia from a range of perspectives: from cell and genome structure, to tissue morphogenesis and physiology, to evolutionary changes in gene function and copy number (see our publications). Building on our involvement in insect and arthropod genomics collaborations, we also increasingly explore eco-evo-devo dynamics across the life cycle. The position is flexibly envisioned, to find the best fit between the applicant and our several active projects.

The applicant should have a master’s degree in a relevant field, strong English skills (German is advantageous but not required), a willingness to work in a team within our department, and a genuine enthusiasm for our research topics. Applicants that already hold a Ph.D. degree should also have at least one first-author publication in a relevant field. A strong grounding in molecular biology and developmental genetics is expected, as is a contribution to the teaching activities of our department (e.g., supporting bachelor’s and master’s students for in-lab research and journal club discussions). Experience with insects and/or computational skills is desired. However, full training will be given in new and advanced techniques.

The lab is based in the Institute for Biology (https://genetik.uni-hohenheim.de/en), and has active research links with neighboring developmental, evolutionary, and insect labs. The University of Hohenheim is a research-intensive university in the south of Stuttgart. Research facilities including the new imaging core facility, a baroque castle, and extensive parks characterize the campus. There is a strong focus on the natural sciences, agricultural sciences, biodiversity and conservation, and plant-insect interactions.

Salaries are paid according to the German pay scale for the public sector (planned as TV-L E13, 50%, for three years), with health insurance and social benefit contributions. The University of Hohenheim is an equal opportunity employer. Women and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

To apply, submit a single PDF with a statement of research interests and what you would bring to the position, CV, and contact details for at least two references via the online portal:

https://tinyurl.com/insect-embryo-omics

Informal enquiries to discuss the position are welcome (Kristen.Panfilio@alum.swarthmore.edu).

All applications will be considered until 26th February 2025.

LifeAct-GFP and Zen1 protein in the early beetle embryo

Salary: German pay scale for the public sector (planned as TV-L E13, 50%, for three years)

Start date: 1 May 2025

Closing Date: 26 February 2025

Scientific fields: Cell biology, Cell fate control and differentiation, Evo-devo and eco-evo-devo, Gene regulation, Morphogenesis

Model systems: Other invertebrate

Duration: Fixed term

Minimum qualifications: M.Sc. degree in a relevant field

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