Doctoral Researcher Position: Pea aphids and their secondary bacterial endosymbionts

The Jena School for Microbial Communication (JSMC) is funded by the German Excellence Initiative. The JSMC is an ambitious Graduate School with over 150 doctoral researchers who are educated in a structured, interdisciplinary training program based on top-level fundamental research. It conceptually combines different research areas within a comprehensive core theme of microbial communication (www.jsmc.uni-jena.de). Institutes at five faculties of the Friedrich Schiller University Jena, six non-university research institutes as well as 12 partner companies participate in this cutting-edge research and training program.

The JSMC Graduate School of Excellence invites applications for a
Doctoral Researcher Position TV-L E13 65% (Ref. No. 122/2017)
to conduct research on the project
Pea aphids and their secondary bacterial endosymbionts: exploring the occurrence, effects and mechanism of a widespread symbiosis
All aphids contain an obligate endosymbiotic bacterium that provides them with essential amino acids. However, some aphids also contain facultative bacterial symbionts that increase their growth and reproduction in as yet undefined ways. Our goal is to employ molecular and chemical methods to understand the occurrence and mechanism of a facultative endosymbiosis in the pea aphid. The results could be useful in designing new measures to combat one of the world’s major groups of crop pests.
More projects details here: www.jsmc.uni-jena.de/phd-program/fellowship-application/vacant-projects/
We expect:
• a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in the natural sciences. Candidates in the final stages of obtaining their degree are welcome to apply.
• desirable methodological skills: basic knowledge of microbiology and molecular biology, and a willingness to learn analytical chemistry, transcriptomics and how to perform experiments with insects.
• highly motivated individuals with an interest in joining one of the interdisciplinary research areas of JSMC
• the abililty to work creatively and independently towards developing your own thesis project
• an integrative and cooperative personality with enthusiasm for actively participating in the dynamic JSMC Community
• excellent English communication skills, both written and spoken (instruction language at JSMC)
We offer:
• a highly communicative atmosphere within a scientific network providing top-level research facilities
• a comprehensive mentoring program with supervision by a team of advisors
• a top-level PhD training program with courses in state-of-the-art research technologies and soft skills
• Jena – City of Science: a young and lively town with dynamic business activities, successful and innovative scientific centers affiliated with the famous Friedrich Schiller University and a vibrant local cultural agenda.