PhD in evolutionary genetics (Max Planck Institute, Germany)

PhD Position "Evolutionary Genetics of the Embryo Mortality Puzzle in the Zebra Finch" at the Max Planck Institute for Ornithology .

A PhD position is available at the Max Planck Institute for Ornithology (MPIO) in Seewiesen (near Munich, Germany) to study the quantitative and molecular genetics of embryo mortality in zebra finches.

It is one of the most fundamental puzzles in evolutionary biology why many animal species show high rates of reproductive failure despite the fact that natural selection should be acting against this in every single generation. For instance, in humans, it is estimated that two out of three fertilized eggs die before birth, and it is still not understood why such a wasteful system has evolved. The case of the zebra finch also represents such a puzzle, because we see high rates of embryo mortality that cannot be attributed to trivial phenomena like environmental effects or inbreeding. The project will combine the use of various genomic tools and QTL mapping with setting up specific experimental crosses to identify and characterize the genetic factors that lead to embryo mortality. In particular, we will attempt to understand better the evolution of incompatibility-causing loci and of selfish genetic elements.

We seek a highly motivated individual who shares our fascination with
this topic and who has a background or strong interest in some of the
following fields: evolutionary biology, quantitative genetics, molecular
genetics and statistics. A Master's degree in biology or equivalent is
required. The project primarily involves handling of extensive data
sets of phenotypic and genetic data (breeding records of egg fates,
pedigrees, SNPs, microsatellites, sequence data). Any prior knowledge
in using R or Python or any experience in using bioinformatics tools in
a Linux environment would be advantageous but can also be acquired at
a later stage.

Initial appointment will be for three years with a possible extension
for another year subject to research progress. Payment will be through a
Max Planck PhD position (13/2 TVöD). We provide a supportive research
and learning environment with excellent facilities. Working language
is English. The Max Planck Society is an equal opportunity employer and
encourages disabled persons to apply. The Society aims at increasing the
number of women in fields where they are underrepresented, and therefore
encourages them to apply.

Please send your application by June 1st 2015 as a single file to our
secretary Carmen Dobus (cdobus@orn.mpg.de). This file should include a
concise statement of research interests and work experiences relevant
to the project, curriculum vitae and contact details for 2-3 academic
references.

For further information about the PhD project please contact Wolfgang
Forstmeier (forstmeier@orn.mpg.de).

www.orn.mpg.de/forstmeier
Max Planck Institute for Ornithology
Eberhard-Gwinner-Str.
82319 Seewiesen, Germany