The IPK is a large, internationally recognized centre of plant research that addresses problems of modern biology with an emphasis on crop plants. Our laboratories host an international workforce that brings together a diversity of qualifications and scientific backgrounds. Current research aims for the development of genetic and biotechnological tools and the comprehensive use of plant-genetic resources to optimise crop traits in sustainable agricultural plant production. For this purpose, the IPK cooperates with many national and international universities and research institutions and enterprises.

For the group Chromosome structure and function of Dr. Andreas Houben we are looking for a

PhD student (f/m)

Employment starting up on 1st March 2012 and is limited for 3 years.

The international research group is interested to decipher the structure und function of chromosomes and genomes. For research details visit:
http://www.ipk-gatersleben.de/Internet/Forschung/CytogenetikGenomanalyse/Chromosomenstruktur

Your duties:
Aim of the DFG funded project is to analyse the mechanism of inverted meiosis. Meiosis in organisms with holocentric chromosomes illustrates that our views of meiotic chromosome arrangement and control of meiosis based on observations of monocentric chromosomes may not apply to all organisms. To proof whether in the holocentric genus Luzula the sequence of meiotic events is inverted (first division is equational whereas the second division is reductional), the project aims to investigate the sequence of meiotic events in L. elegans using advanced high-resolution microscopy. L. elegans genes encoding proteins involved in meiotic recombination, crossover formation and sister chromatid cohesion/separation will be identified and their sequence information will be used to generate antibodies for localisation of these proteins on meiotic chromosomes. The incumbent will be working in a highly interdisciplinary environment.

You fit to us:
Applicants must hold a Diploma / Masters in Biology, Biochemistry or Agricultural Sciences. A strong background in standard methods of molecular genetics and/or cytogenetics are required. Strong communication skills in English are required.

If you need further information feel free to contact Dr. Andreas Houben. You reach him under houben@ipk-gatersleben.de or phone +49 (0) 39482 5486.

Equal opportunities exist for female and male applicants. Hence, certified women are particularly asked to apply. A family-friendly environment is given. Severely disabled people are taken in preference when the same level of qualification is given.

Send your complete and informative application please up to 15th February 2012 under information of the identity figure 06/01/12 to Ms. Gläser (glaeser@ipk-gatersleben.de). If you have questions to the application procedure and selection procedure you reach Ms. Gläser under phone +49 (0) 39482 5101.