Research assistant (all genders welcome)

Research assistant (all genders welcome)

Plants exposed to a mild heat stress can “remember” this experience and respond more effectively to a later, more severe stress. This thermomemory enables plants to maintain protection, stabilize essential processes, and recover more efficiently. Understanding how thermomemory is established and maintained is key to improving plant resilience as heat waves become more frequent.

Our project investigates the molecular mechanisms underlying thermomemory in Arabidopsis thaliana. Through natural variation, we have identified lines with enhanced thermotolerance, and genetic analyses have revealed candidate causal genes. In parallel, our reverse genetics work has uncovered novel transcription factors likely involved in regulating thermomemory.

Postdoctoral researcher responsibilities

• Functionally characterize identified candidate genes and transcription factors.
• Dissect downstream regulatory pathways using molecular, genetic, and cellular approaches.
• Drive discoveries, including identifying additional regulators and uncovering previously unknown pathways that shape thermomemory and contribute to improved heat stress resilience.
• Plan, execute, and analyze experiments focused on identifying regulators of thermomemory in plants.
• Perform genetic analyses, including BSA and QTL mapping, to identify causal genes underlying improved thermomemory.
• Execute functional characterization of newly identified transcription factors and their downstream pathways.
• Interpret scientific datasets, write manuscripts for publication, and support grant acquisition by preparing funding proposals.
• Provide teaching support in practical courses for university students and supervise students in research practicums.
• Conduct literature research and prepare scientific reports and presentations.
• Supervise laboratory work and coordinate workflow organization.

Requirements

• Completed university degree in Plant Molecular Biology, Plant Sciences, Genetics, or related discipline and a completed PhD or PhD close to completion.
• Strong experience in molecular biology and genetics, including BSA, QTL mapping, or related genetic approaches.
• Experience with RNA‑seq data analysis (experimental design, data processing, or downstream analysis).
• Expertise or strong interest in plant stress biology, particularly heat stress, thermotolerance, or thermomemory.
• Experience with functional characterization of genes, transcription factors, or signaling pathways.
• Interest in supervising students and contributing to teaching activities.
• Strong organizational skills, a structured and reliable working style, and the ability to work independently and in a team.
• Motivation to contribute to grant writing and collaborative research activities.
• Very good command of English and German (written and spoken).
• Proactive mindset, scientific curiosity, and enthusiasm for working in an international and interdisciplinary research environment.