PhD position: Basidiomycete adaptations in mating interactions

The Jena School for Microbial Communication (JSMC) is funded by the German Excellence Initiative. 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 to a comprehensive picture 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 are participating in this cutting-edge research and training program.

The Graduate School of Excellence ‘JSMC’ invites applications for a
Doctoral Researcher Position (Ref. No. 118/2016)
to conduct research on the project
Basidiomycete adaptations in mating interactions
Within the lineage of basidiomycetes, mating interactions are governed by a tetrapolar mating system that is governed by two unliked loci, A and B. The mating reaction involves formation of hyphal anastomoses independet of mating types and subsequent action of the gene products of the A and B loci coding for homeodomain type transcription factor and pheromone recognition genes, respectively. As compared to other mating interactions, the tetrapolar system gave rise to extensive gene families resulting in more than 20,000 mating types in nature for, e.g., the mushroom forming basidiomycete Schizophyllum commune. This intraspecies interaction thus is comprised of a specific language of pheromone signals perceived through receptors and translated into mating behavior. A molecular role of dynein should be explored using heterologous expression in ascomycetes for reconstitution of temperature sensitive mutants in dynein available for Aspergillus or Neurospora. In basidiomycete dikaryons, a transcription/translation profile is sought to address the specificities in basidiomycete sexual development. The potential finding of substitutes for “general eukaryotic” factors like the dynein heavy chain C-terminus or flotillin in basidiomycetes could not only enhance the understanding of this important part of cellular division and development, but also for therapeutic applications.
More projects details here: www.jsmc.uni-jena.de/phd-program/fellowship-application/vacant-projects/
We expect:
• a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Natural Sciences (specifically Microbiology/Biotechnology). Candidates about to earn their degree are welcome to apply.
• desirable methodological skills: microbiology, molecular biology, fungal genetics.
• high motivation and interest to join one of the interdisciplinary research areas of JSMC
• creativity and interest to shape your own thesis project
• an integrative and cooperative personality with enthusiasm for actively participating in the lively JSMC Community
• very good communication skills in English (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 scientific centers of innovation and a vibrant cultural scene around the famous Friedrich Schiller University
The doctoral researcher positions are available from the beginning of 2017. The positions will be financially supported corresponding to TV-L (salary agreement for public service employees). Friedrich Schiller University Jena is an equal opportunity employer. Disabled persons with comparable qualifications receive preferential status.