Part-time postdoc or PhD student position in plant molecular biology/physiology

Applications are invited for a postdoctoral (part-time) or doctoral scientist position in the group of Prof. Marcel Bucher in the Institute for Plant Sciences at the University of Cologne and its Cluster of Excellence on Plant Sciences (www.ceplas.eu ) in the vibrant city of Cologne with a lot of spirit and culture. The research in the Bucher lab is based on a broad interest in the interactions of terrestrial plants with soil microbiota, with a particular focus on mutualistic symbioses. The main objective of this project is to advance the basic knowledge of the molecular mechanisms regulating the symbiotic association between plants and arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi, with a focus on the underlying genetic regulatory network.

We are looking for a postdoctoral or PhD researcher who wants to acquire in-depth expertise in a combination of relevant strategies such as ChIP-qPCR, RNAseq and molecular physiology of AM symbiosis in WT and mutant plants, as well as validation of regulatory factors through DNA-protein and protein-protein interaction approaches.

A Master's degree or equivalent in biology and experience in molecular biology is essential. The successful candidate will conduct his/her research and thrive scientifically in a creative and stimulating international scientific environment with excellent research infrastructure. The laboratory language is English. Very good written and spoken German and English language skills are required. Experience in scientific writing is particularly important.

The position is funded by the German Research Foundation and is available immediately. Applications will be evaluated on a rolling basis until 15 October 2021. Your application should include a curriculum vitae, a letter of motivation with a description of your research interests and relevant professional experience, and two references in a single PDF file.

There is equal opportunity for female and male applicants. Designated women are therefore particularly encouraged to apply. A family-friendly environment is provided. Severely disabled persons will be given preferential consideration in case of equal qualification.

Address for further application and information:

Prof. Marcel Bucher and Claudia Schwanitz

Email: [email protected] , [email protected]

www.bucherlab.uni-koeln.de