Postdoctoral Researcher Biochemistry and ecology of root-induced responses in Brassica species (f,m...

The Leibniz-Institute of Vegetable and Ornamental Crops (IGZ) aims for excellence in horticultural research and related plant, environmental and social sciences. IGZ is based in Großbeeren and is a member of the Leibniz Association (WGL). IGZ conducts strategic and international research for the sustainable production and use of vegetables, contributing to food security, human well-being and the conservation of natural resources. At IGZ, researchers from different disciplines work together on core-funded and grant-funded projects, in collaboration with national and international research partners.

The scientist will be part of the in future newly established research group “Plant Biotic Interactions”. The aim is to unravel the molecular and chemical mechanisms governing interactions between plants and their biotic and abiotic environment in natural and agricultural ecosystems.

We are looking for an enthusiastic and ambitious

Postdoctoral Researcher Biochemistry and ecology of root-induced responses in Brassica species (f,m,d)

Reference number: 19/2022/D

Employment will be initially for three years. The salary will be based on qualification and research experience according to the wage agreement TV-L, salary domain east, up to EG 13, full time. The position is suitable for part-time work.

The scientific will focuses on the interaction between root feeding cabbage root-fly (Delia radicum) and Brassica species including their rhizosphere and larval microbiome communities. The specific aim is to identify the molecular and chemical mechanisms underlying Delia-induced responses in Brassica plants. The focus lies on the roles of glucosinolate transporters and biosynthesis genes in (optimal) defence allocation patterns in roots, before and after Delia and nematode feeding, singly and in combination. In addition, the aim is to identify the molecular regulation and functional role of the phytoalexin cyclobrassinin.

Tasks include

• design and implementation of scientific experiments with plants, root herbivores, nematodes and microbes
• carrying out molecular and chemical analyses of plant, insect and microbial samples in the lab
• data analysis, statistical processing and interpretation of molecular and metabolomic data
• data sharing in open access repositories following FAIR principles
• writing scientific publications and presentation of results to international scientific audience

We are looking for candidates with

• a PhD in biology or equivalent with a strong focus on molecular/chemical ecology of plant-herbivore interactions
• hands-on experience managing experiments with Brassica species, their root herbivores, (soil) microbes and nematodes
• hands-on experience with plant molecular and metabolomic methods in the lab
• experience with metabolomic data processing and statistical analyses for processing of (plant) metabolomic data
• readiness to supervise students and work with technicians
• independent thinker, accurate and well-organized researcher
• responsible personality with excellent communication skills
• very good proficiency in English (both oral and written) and ability to work in a team

We offer

• an inspiring research position in an international environment
• an inspiring and dynamic research environment, including state-of-the art research facilities
• an exciting project of considerable fundamental and applied relevance
• individual options for career development
• flexible and family-friendly working time models and the possibility of mobile working (up to 50% of working time)
• a place of employment located close to Berlin and Potsdam

Please send a motivation letter stating why this is an interesting topic for you as well as your CV, names of two references, copies of academic certificates and indicate your earliest possible starting date.

Contact: Prof. Monika Schreiner (phone: +49 (0)33701 78 304; e-mail: [email protected] )

We encourage a healthy work-life balance. The IGZ attaches great importance to equal opportunities. Applicants with disabilities will be given preference in case of equal qualifications. The IGZ embraces diversity in its workforce, and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates, irrespective of age, gender, sexual orientation, religion, belief or ethnic origin. In an effort to increase the proportion of female employees in this area, we specifically urge women scientists to apply for the position.

We prefer to receive applications by email to [email protected] in pdf format by 29.08.2022. Our postal address is: Personalbüro, Institute for Vegetable and Ornamental Crops, Theodor-Echtermeyer-Weg 1, D-14979 Großbeeren.