PhD Position - Evolutionary Genetics in Zebra Finch

PhD Position at MPI Ornithology:

Evolutionary Genetics of the Embryo Mortality Puzzle in the Zebra Finch

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.

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.

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