Postdoctoral Researcher - Gene drives in mosquitoes

Polo d’Innovazione di Genomica, Genetica e Biologia (Polo GGB) is a highly specialized Italian private enterprise operating in the Life Sciences field and focusing on research and development of genetics, genomics, and bioinformatics solutions and delivery of services to the academic and public/private sectors. Polo GGB receives substantial international funding in individual grants and as a partner of research consortia and projects, including Target Malaria, ISIDORe, and SCENARIOS.

The Ecology and Genetics branch of Polo GGB, based in Terni (Italy), is a cutting-edge research centre working on vector mosquitoes. The centre is equipped with unique facilities for the generation, rearing and studying genetically modified mosquitoes in a large cage environment mimicking tropical conditions.

Position Summary

One postdoctoral researcher position is available immediately in the Ecology and Genetics Research Centre to work under the supervision of Dr Chrysanthi Taxiarchi and Dr Jaroslaw Krzywinski on an exciting project funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation aimed at generating and testing novel genetic approaches to control and counter-act CRISPR-based gene drives developed for malaria control. For relevant publications see: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41587-020-0508-1, https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-021-24214-5, https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-2831470/v1.

The candidate will interact with insectary and molecular biology teams to design experiments aimed at assessing key genetic, behavioural and fitness parameters of genetically modified mosquitoes for confined release trials. The successful candidate is expected to have a strong background in molecular biology or experimental genetics, and an excellent practical understanding of techniques commonly used in the molecular biology laboratory. A background in the field and/or experience working with insects (e.g. mosquitoes) or CRISPR would be desirable but not necessary.

REQUIREMENTS

• Ph.D. in Genetic Engineering, Molecular Biology or closely related field.
• Expertise and hands-on experience in:
• molecular cloning
• experimental genetics
• statistical analysis of data
• insect biology (desirable)
• mathematical modelling (desirable)

Demonstrated experience in experimental design, data acquisition, analysis, and manuscript preparation evidenced by first-author publications in peer-reviewed journals and/or submitted manuscripts.

Personal Skills

• Highly motivated to perform cutting-edge research and publish in top-quality journals

• Able to plan, conduct, and analyse experiments with little supervision. Meticulous attention to details, well-organized in performing experiments and record keeping.
• Excellent interpersonal and collaborative skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English

Start Date: Positions available immediately.

Employment duration: One year, with a possibility of extension dependent on the availability of funds.

To apply: Please, send your CV, cover letter, and contact details of 2 referees to: [email protected] .

Inquiries can be directed to Dr Jaroslaw Krzywinski ([email protected]) and Dr Chrysanthi Taxiarchi ([email protected]).

More info: https://www.pologgb.com