PhD Candidate (m/f/x)

About us:

We are a diverse group of scientists aiming to uncover the molecular mechanism underlying the endosymbiosis between corals and photosynthetic dinoflagellates. Through curiosity-driven research, we generate mechanistic insight into symbiosis, the foundation for understanding what goes awry during coral bleaching, and capacity of coral reefs to adapt to environmental change. The symbionts live inside the corals’ cells. With a cell biological perspective, we dissect the mechanisms underpinning symbiont acquisition and its integration in host cell function. We ask what happens during bleaching and what role distinct symbiont-host pairings play for adaptation. We are keen to better reconstruct the evolution of symbiosis and its relation to parasitism.

We are looking for you:

PhD Candidate (m/f/x)

in Planegg/Martinsried

Your tasks and responsibilities:

Corals have evolved specific mechanisms to adapt to challenging environments. They hijack the photosynthetic capabilities of dinoflagellates to form a nutritional endosymbiosis and thrive in nutrient poor environments. Another challenge is that corals are sessile animals and therefore inevitably exposed to DNA-damaging UV radiation in their sun-lit environments.

How do corals battle with high levels of DNA damage? How do they cope with high levels of reactive oxygen species generated through symbiont photosynthesis likely leading to additional DNA damage?

In this position, you will:

• Develop experimental methods for analysis of DNA damage repair to quantify and compare DNA damage levels in Aiptasia, a model system for corals and using comparative approaches in Nematostella and cell culture systems.
• Use gene expression analysis, CRISPR genome editing and biochemical approaches to characterize key players by ectopic protein expression and functional assays in mammalian cells.

Your qualifications:

• The successful candidate has a Master’s degree in molecular, cell biology or related discipline and is highly motivated to do experimental science.
• The candidate has the capacity to work independently as well as the ability to integrate and contribute to a highly international collaborative work environment.
• Good time management skills, clear communication skills and fluency in English are required.
• Experience in mammalian cell culture, immunostaining, microscopy, molecular cloning, protein biochemistry is an advantage.

Benefits:

This position offers the opportunity to work in a diverse, international team, dedicated to advancing our understanding of coral symbiosis. Our research is highly topical and we seek to actively contribute to a sustainable world. We offer various training opportunities and participation in outreach activities. If applicable, we offer participation in coral reef field work in Okinawa (Japan): For more information

Researchers are supported by an excellent laboratory infrastructure at the HighTechCampus Planegg-Martinsried, on the outskirts of Munich, which is part of the largest German university.
We value good communication, a pleasant working atmosphere and personal responsibility. We are also dedicated to contribute to open and reproducible science.

In addition, you can benefit from the various LMU corporate benefits

People with disabilities who are equally as qualified as other applicants will receive preferential treatment.

Contact:

Candidates should send a motivation letter and CV (one PDF, max. 5 MB; including three contacts for references) addressed to Prof. Annika Guse.

Please let us know briefly in your cover letter through which medium/website/etc. you became aware of our job advertisement.

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