[Taxacom] PhD position plant molecular cytogenetics

[Gerald M. Schneeweiss]

PhD position in plant molecular cytogenetics/genome evolution

One full-time PhD position in plant molecular cytogenetics/genome 
evolution is available for 3 years in the Department of Systematic 
and Evolutionary Botany, University of Vienna, Austria starting November 2009.

The position is part of the FWF (Austrian Science Fund) project 
"Origin and genome evolution of chromosomal races in the polyploid 
complex of Prospero autumnale (Hyacinthaceae)". The project focuses 
on a chromosomally highly variable monocotyledonous plant complex 
which comprises diploids with different base chromosome numbers (x = 
5, 6, 7), as well as numerous auto- and allopolyploids. Essentially, 
every known form of chromosome mutation has been detected in this 
group. A thorough investigation of the cytological features of this 
remarkable group employing repetitive DNA analyses and the 
interpretation of changes in a sound phylogenetic context will allow 
addressing evolutionary questions concerning the origins, mechanisms, 
directions and frequencies of chromosomal changes. Ultimately it will 
allow establishment of the role of chromosome change in race 
formation and speciation.

The project is based on an integrative approach utilizing molecular 
cytogenetic and molecular biology techniques, bioinformatics 
(analyses of deep-sequencing data) and molecular phylogenetic 
approaches. Project will be performed in international collaboration 
with the groups in UK (Dr. A. Leitch, Dr. I. Leitch, Dr. J. Parker), 
and in Czech Republic (Dr. J. Macas).

The successful candidate should hold a European or equivalent Master 
degree in biology/botany/molecular biology or related field. Prior 
practical experience in plant cytogenetics (chromosome preparation, 
FISH) and basic molecular biology techniques (PCR, DNA labeling, 
cloning) is preferred. The candidate should be motivated, good team 
player, and proficient in English (written and oral).

Please send an application including CV, a list of publications, a 
brief outline of research experience and scientific interests (max. 
one page), and two reference letters. Review of applications will 
begin immediately and continue until 31.10.2009.


For further information or to apply for the position please contact:
Dr. Hanna Schneeweiss
University of Vienna
Rennweg 14, A-1030, Vienna, Austria
<mailto:hanna.schneeweiss at univie.ac.at>hanna.schneeweiss at univie.ac.at


Dr. Hanna Schneeweiss
Department of Systematic and Evolutionary Botany,
University of Vienna, Rennweg 14, A-1030 Vienna
Austria

Tel. 0043 1 4277 54149
Fax 0043 1 4277 9541
hanna.schneeweiss at univie.ac.at
http://www.botanik.univie.ac.at/systematik/personnel/weiss.htm