We invite applications for
a 3-years PhD position at the JG University of Mainz, Germany (Zoological
institute, Dpt Evolutionary Biology). The project aims to better understand the
importance of social immunity in the early evolution of social life in insects.
Our model system is the European earwig, Forficula
auricularia, a species with non-obligatory forms of maternal care. The PhD
student will conduct a series of standardized experiments to investigate how
behavioral interactions between family members help individuals fighting
against pathogens, as well as to determine the genes involved in the expression
of social immunity. The scientific project includes behavioral experiments
(mostly), immunity measurements (e.g. PO and PPO) and RNA-seq analyses. Depending
on the student interests, the project may also include quantitative genetics,
chemical ecology and/or population genetics.
The position requires a
recent Diploma or Master degree in Biology (or a related field). The successful
candidate should be highly motivated and have strong background in evolutionary
biology and behavioral ecology, as well as experience in conducting behavioral
experiments. Good skills in biostatistics or a high motivation to improve the
statistical knowledge (e.g. R language) are important. Previous experiences
with insect immunity and/or RNA-seq are advantageous, but not required. The
position is fully-funded by the DFG (65% TV-L E13). People from every
nationality are encouraged to apply. The working language of the laboratory is
English.
The University of Mainz
hosts many excellent scientific institutions (http://www.uni-mainz.de/eng) and Mainz is a
historic city located on the River Rhine with many students and a rich social
and cultural life (http://www.mainz.de).
Our young group offers an international, dynamic and
interactive scientific environment and state-of the art, newly equipped
laboratories. Information on our
scientific work including recent publications can be found under http://www.bio.uni-mainz.de/zoo/evobio/322_ENG_HTML.php. For more information, please do not hesitate to
contact Joël Meunier (meunier@uni-mainz.de).
Interested candidates
should send applications (as a single .pdf e-mail attachment) containing a
motivation letter (max. 1 page), a curriculum vitae (with the grades of their
B.Sc and M.Sc), a copy of their Master or Diploma thesis (if not finished,
please send a summary of the project and the expected date of submission), and
the names and email address of 2-3 potential referees to Joël Meunier (meunier@uni-mainz.de).
Review of applications will
begin the 30th of June 2014
and will continue until the position is filled. The ideal starting date for the
position is September 2014, but is negotiable