Job - Two PhD positions Developmental Genetics of Plants

A major challenge in developmental biology is to identify the genetic changes that lead to the evolution of animal and plant species with a wide variety of morphologies. Higher plant species develop solitary flowers or complex inflorescences with many flowers arranged in an array of different patterns. The genetic control of the development of racemose inflorescences has been well studied in Arabidopsis. Nightshades such as petunia and tomato generate inflorescences with a distinct cymose architecture. Genetic experiments identified a gene known as EVERGREEN in petunia and COMPOUND INFLORESCENCE in tomato that is essential and unique for cymes. EVG encodes a homeodomain transcription factor and is derived by gene duplication from a widely conserved ancestral gene that is important for establishing developmental patterns in embryos. To unravel the role of EVG in the development and evolution of cymose inflorescences we will initiate two projects:

PhD project 1 aims to unravel how the expression pattern of EVG and thereby its role in development diverged from that of the ancestral gene and by which upstream factors it is now regulated;

PhD project 2 aims to identify downstream genes that are activated or repressed by EVG and to understand how EVG controls the formation of flowers and the expression of floral meristem identity genes in a non-cell autonomous way. A single technician will assist both PhD students.

The following requirements are applicable

• candidates should have an MSc (drs, ir) in Biology, Biotechnology, Biomedical Sciences or related disciplines;
• research experience within the field of Molecular Genetics;
• basic knowledge of laboratory procedures and practical experience with DNA and/or protein techniques;
• fluency in oral and written English;
• good social and communication skills.

The full time appointments will be initially for 1 year. After satisfactory evaluation of the initial appointment, it can be extended for a total duration of  3 years. You can find information about our excellent fringe benefits of employment at www.workingatvu.nl.
• Remuneration of  8,3% end-of-year bonus and  8% holiday allowance;
• possibilities to save up holidays for sabbatical leave;
• Generous contribution (70%) commuting allowance based on public transport.

The salary will be in accordance with university regulations for academic personnel, and amounts €2.042,- gross per month in the first year up to €2.612,- gross per month in the fourth year
(salary scale 85) based on a full-time employment.

The Faculty of Earth and Life Sciences (FALW) offers a range of Bachelor and Master programmes. Research at the faculty focuses on the fields of the life sciences, health sciences, environmental sciences and earth sciences. World-class teaching and cutting-edge research activities go hand in hand. FALW works together with other faculties like medicine, exact sciences, economics, psychology and social sciences. The faculty’s research facilities can be categorized as excellent. The faculty’s international focus fosters cross-border collaboration, leading to substantially improved quality and greater impact of our research results.

The Department of Molecular Cell Biology, section Developmental Genetics of the VU University is offering two PhD positions for four years within a NWO funded TOP-ALW project ‘Genetic control and evolution of inflorescence architecture’.

For additional information please contact: Prof. Dr. R.E. Koes or dr. E. Souer
Phone number +31 (0)20 59 87201 or  +31 (0)20 59 87139
E-mail: ronald.koes@vu.nl or erik.souer@vu.nl

Applicants are requested to write a letter in which they describe their abilities and motivation, accompanied by a curriculum vitae and one or two references. Written applications should be sent before the 10th of February, 2012 to:
VU University Amsterdam
Faculty of  Earth and Life Sciences 
Attn.: dr. Y.K.M. Kops
De Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
It is also possible to apply by e-mail to: vacature.falw@vu.nl

Please mention the vacancy number in the e-mail header or at the top of your letter and on the envelope.