Postdoc (m/f/d) | Molecular Plant Biology

Molecular Plant Biology Postdoc (m/f/d)

The Wallner group at the Department of Comparative Development and Genetics at the Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research (MPIPZ) in Cologne is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to contribute to the investigation of tissue patterning, polarity and body axes formation during sporeling development of the liverwort Marchantia polymorpha. The candidate will interact closely with Dr. Eva‑Sophie Wallner and members of her group and be involved in the design and execution of experiments, followed by statistical data analysis and publication.

One major current project aims to answer how the first flat body structure – the prothallus – develops from a single‑cellled spore and how this structure establishes dorsoventrality de novo in response to light. The successful candidate will explore the regulatory network of dorsoventral tissue development by performing state‑of‑the‑art genetic and biochemical approaches, such as proximity labelling and ChIP‑seq/DAP‑seq followed by CRISPR mutant analysis of identified candidates. Confocal microscopy and engagement with MorphoGraphX and associated image analysis methodologies will be highly encouraged, as will collaboration with the local facilities.

Outstanding teamwork and communication skills, as well as a willingness and ability to work collaboratively towards common goals, are essential. This position would suit creative, highly motivated, proactive individuals who can interact productively in a team and who are interested in fundamental questions of organ development.

Qualifications

• PhD degree in molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, botany or related fields received no more than 2 years ago. Candidates in the final stages of their PhD are also encouraged to apply.


• Strong interest in developmental biology and pattern formation in response to internal (hormone) and external stimuli (light)


• Proficiency in bioinformatics tasks and/or a strong motivation to learn how to analyze large proteome or genome datasets


• Experience with confocal microscopy and image processing as well as former experience with bryophytes, is an advantage


• Excellent communication skills in English (spoken and written)


• Ability to work in a structured way and a strong commitment to reproducibility in research


• Ability to adapt and apply/improve methods of the latest state of the art


• High‑quality publications and a track‑record of presenting scientific work at conferences that substantiate the above‑mentioned skills


• Interest in writing postdoc fellowship applications


• Ability to multitask and work harmoniously as part of a group and engage in collaboration in and beyond the institute

Offer

The position will be initially for two years and is subject to the German regulations for the duration of scientific training. Remuneration is based on qualifications and experience in accordance with the TVöD Bund. Social benefits are in line with those of the public sector.