PhD in pleistocene immunogenetic diversity (Germany)

The Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW) in Berlin is Germany’s premier wildlife research institute, one of eight research institutes in the Forschungsverbund Berlin e. V., a member of the Leibniz Association and jointly funded by the German federal and state governments. The IZW focuses on the life histories and mechanisms of evolutionary adaptations of mammals, their limits and their conservation in natural and anthropogenically influenced environments. The institute operates within the fields of wildlife health and diseases, reproductive biology and medicine, and evolutionary ecology and genetics.

The Department of Wildlife Diseases offers (beginning June 1, 2015)
a PhD-Position on “Measuring immunogenetic diversity during the
Pleistocene”

This project will utilize novel next generation sequencing approaches
to characterize the evolution of immunogenetic loci over a ca. 50,000
year time span in species with contrasting demographic histories
(extinct woolly mammoths and muskoxen).We expect to determine the rate
of evolution, persistence and replacement of Toll-Like Receptor (TLR)
and Major Histocompatibility locus (MHC) alleles for both species which
will provide a better understanding of the evolutionary dynamics of the
loci that cannot be obtained from examination of modern DNA.

Specific tasks include
- Development of hybridization capture assays coupled with next
  generation sequencing for the MHC and TLRs
- Bioinformatic and evolutionary genetic analysis of generated data
- Logistical coordination of work between Canada, Denmark and Germany
Requirements
- Diploma or Master of Science in Biology or related fields;
- Strong background in evolutionary biology and phylogenetics;
- Preference will be given to candidates with ancient DNA or forensic
  DNA experience;
- Preference will also be given to candidates with next generation
  sequencing experience;
- A background in statistics and bioinformatics would be advantageous;
- Organizational skills and ability to work in a team;
- Part of the project will take place in Canada. Thus, proficiency in
  English (speaking and writing) is required

The position is initially limited to two years, June 1, 2015, with the
possibility for extension to a maximum of three years. The reimbursement
occurs according to TVöD (65%). The IZW is an equal opportunity
employer. Applications from women are strongly encouraged. Preference
will be given to disabled applicants with the same qualifications. For
further information please contact Prof. Alex Greenwood (e-mail
greenwood@izw-berlin.de).

Applicants should submit a letter explaining their interests in and
particular skills for this position, a CV, copies of relevant degrees and
contact details of two people who can provide a reference before April
7th, 2015 via the IZW’s online-job-market (button “Apply online”).