The main objectives of the PhD project is to:
a) Develop mathematical models of the relationship between genetic and
phenotypic variation (or genotype-phenotype map)
b) Understand how this relationship affects morphological evolution.
c) Develop models about the evolution of gene networks and embryonic
development in general.
A core concept of current evolutionary biology is the genotype-phenotype
(GP) map, which connects genetic variation to phenotypic variation
and to potential for evolutionary change. The aim of the project is
to develop or investigate models of the GP map that can be related to
specific biological study systems or specific evolutionary questions
investigated by the group. There is considerable flexibility as to the
exact topics, and the interests of the candidate will be important in
defining the study objects.
These models can be abstract or linked to specific biological systems. The
biotechnology institute includes a range of experimental biologitst
working on several systems. The supervisor of the theoretical aspects will
be Dr. Salazar-Ciudad but the PhD would include close collaboration with
Jukka Jernvall group and would include collaboration with developmental
biologists, bioinformaticians, paleontologists and other evolutionary and
systems biologists. The work may also include, optionally, collaboration,
and spending some time, in Barcelona.
The modeling can focus on gene network regulation, cell-cell
communication, cell mechanical interactions and developmental mechanisms
in general and, optionally, artifical in silico evolution.
2. Requirements:
The applicant must be a biologists, preferably with a strong background
in either evolutionary biology, developmental biology, systems biology or theoretical
biology. Some knowledge of ecology, zoology, cell and molecular biology
are also desirable.
Bioinformaticians, systems biologists or computer biologists that do
not have a degree in biology (e.g. Computer scientists, physicists or
engineers) would not be considered (not replied).
Programming skills or a willingness to acquire them is required.
The most important requirement is a strong interest and motivation
on science, gene networks and evolution. A capacity for creative and
critical thinking is also desirable.
Prior experience in evolutionary or developmental biology is an advantage,
and the candidate may be required to do some programming (although how
much may depend on the exact project).
3. Description of the position:
The fellowship will be for a period of up to 4 years (100% research work:
no teaching involved).
The purpose of the fellowship is research training leading to the
successful completion of a PhD degree.
Salary according to Finnish PhD student salaries.
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Información complementaria de la oferta:
4. The application must include:
-Application letter including a statement of interests
-CV (summarizing degrees obtained, subjects included in degree and
grades, average grade)
-Application should be send to Isaac Salazar-Ciudad by email:
isaac.salazar@helsinki.fi
Foreign applicants are advised to attach an explanation of their
University's grading system. Please remember that all documents should
be in English.
5. Examples of recent publications by Isaac Salazar-Ciudad group.
-Salazar-Ciudad I1, Marín-Riera M. Adaptive dynamics under
development-based genotype-phenotype maps.
Nature. 2013 May 16;497(7449):361-4.
-Salazar-Ciudad I, Jernvall J. A computational model of teeth and the
developmental origins of morphological variation. Nature. 2010 Mar
25;464(7288):583-6.
6. Interested candidates should check our group webpage:
http://www.biocenter.helsinki.fi/salazar/index.html
The deadline is 15 of June (although candidates may be selected as they come).
Isaac Salazar-Ciudad: isaac.salazar@helsinki.fi
isalazar@mappi.helsinki.fi
