PhD position at the University of Regensburg,
Department of Cell Biology, Plant Biochemistry and Biotechnology,
in the laboratory of Prof. Dr. Stefanie Sprunck
The Sprunck lab investigates the formation and function of flowering plant gametes, male-female gamete interactions and the establishment and maintanance of cell polarity. We are part of the collaborative Research Unit ICIPS (“Innovation and Coevolution In Plant Sexual reproduction“; FOR 5098), funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG).
Project description
The ICIPS PhD project aims to investigate the evolutionary history and functional diversification of a family of secreted small cysteine-rich proteins, some members of which are crucial for plant reproduction.
The project will employ a wide range of basic and advanced methods related to (plant) molecular biology, molecular genetics, cell biology and protein biochemistry. In addition to DNA and RNA work, recombinant proteins are expressed, affinity purifications are carried out and functional tests are performed. Structural modelling and microscopic methods will be applied, as well as plant transformation and CRISPR/Cas9-based gene editing. In addition to the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana, gymnosperms, ferns and mosses are also being studied as part of the project.
The project will be carried out in a very international and team-oriented department. We offer a multidisciplinary working environment in a very well-equipped laboratory with many opportunities to develop new skills. Our PhD students are integrated in the Regensburg International Graduate School of Life Sciences (RIGeL) of the University of Regensburg. RIGeL offers a well-structured PhD program designed to train its students in soft skills, scientific methodology and thinking.
Requirements
- Master's degree in the field or molecular biology/ biochemistry/cell biology/genetics.
- Solid understanding of laboratory techniques and workflows in molecular biology, protein biochemistry
- Experience in working with Arabidopsis thaliana, CRISPR/Cas-based gene editing, and working with transgenic plants is a plus
- Experience with microscopy techniques is preferred
- Enthusiasm for the topic of the evolution of gene/protein families
- High motivation, problem solving and good organizational skills
- Open-mindedness and willingness to familiarize yourself with new topics and current state-of-the-art techniques
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in an international team
- Excellent communication skills in written and spoken English
Please send your application including CV and transcripts to stefanie.sprunck(at)ur.de (?ffnet Ihr E-Mail-Programm)