The Paleogenetics group at the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural
Sciences, Tübingen University, invites applications for two PhD Student
Positions 65% TVL-E13 for a period of 3 years, starting in January 2013
or later. We are looking for PhD students interested in the evolution
and genetic reconstruction of pathogens from archaeological samples
using next generation sequencing approaches.
FUNDING:
Positions are funded by the European Research Council (ERC) as part of a
5 year project with the title "Ancient Pathogen Genomics or re-emerging
infectious disease" (APGREID).
JOB DESCRIPTION:
The PhD candidates will study the evolution of pathogen genomes from
historical pandemics as well as host pathogen interactions throughout
time. The primary focus will be the identification of causative agents
of major human pandemics during human history, the reconstruction of
complete pathogen genomes by applying next generation sequencing
techniques and targeted ancient DNA enrichment strategies as well as
comparative approaches to modern pathogen strains in a phylogenetic
context. Mutation rates and divergence times of modern and historical
pathogen strains will be obtained.
A second project will involve the reconstruction of immunity related
genes from human host populations from time periods before, during and
after major pandemics in order to get direct insights into host pathogen
interactions over time. The research will focus primarily on bacterial
and viral pathogens that continue to affect modern populations. . The
position may involve fieldtrips in order to identify and sample skeletal
remains from historical contexts all over Europe. Both positions are
part of the same research project and will be directly supervised by the
PI of the project Prof. Johannes Krause as well as three postdoctoral
fellows. The working climate in the paleogenetics group is open with low
hierarchical structures and involves brainstorming and interactions with
all team members during weekly meetings and informal discussions.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Candidates must hold a Master's Degree in Biology, Medicine,
Physical/Biological Anthropology, Bioarchaeology, Biochemistry,
Bioinformatics or related disciplines. He or she should have a background
in evolutionary biology or molecular biology and phylogenetics, a
strong interest in working with next generation sequencing (NGS) data
and ancient DNA. Some basic knowledge in general statistical analysis
such as R as well as NGS analysis tools is a plus. Basic experience
in a molecular biology laboratory is also required. We are seeking
an individual with excellent verbal and written communication skills
who is willing to co-operate with other research groups and with our
international collaborators in Europe, North America and Asia.
Conditions of employment:
Salary and benefits are according to a public service position in
Germany (65% TVH-E13). Tübingen University is an equal opportunity
employer. Women and members of minority groups including disabled persons
are strongly encouraged to apply. The contract is for three years and
shall start Jan 1st, 2013 or as soon as possible thereafter. The workplace
is in Tübingen, Germany, but may include field trips to sample skeletal
material as well as visits with our collaboration partners in Canada and
France for an extended period of several weeks. The Paleogenetics work
group is part of the interdisciplinary Institute for Archaeological
Sciences at the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, with a
strong focus of applying genetics to the field of archaeology. The
work group has close contacts to the MPI for developmental Biology,
the Bioinformatics department of Tübingen University as well as the
Human Genetics department of the medical faculty in Tübingen.
START DATE:
There is a proposed start date of January 1st, 2013.
HOW to APPLY:
In order to be considered all eligible candidates must email the following
three items: (a) one page cover letter, (b) CV, and (c) three references
to johannes.krause@uni-tuebingen.
--
Johannes Krause
Dr. rer. nat.
Professor for Paleogenetics
Institute of Archaeological Sciences(INA)
Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences
Eberhard-Karls University Tuebingen
Ruemelinstr. 23
72070 Tuebingen
Tel:
