If you want to join the lab for your undergraduate/graduate studies, a Ph.D. or postdoc position, feel free to send an email to roswitha.schmickl [a] natur.cuni.cz. I will be happy to discuss and find solutions for this to happen.
A PhD position is available, in collaboration with Filip Kolář: https://botany.natur.cuni.cz/ecolgen
Title of the Ph.D. project: The role of temperature in the origin and evolutionary success of Arabidopsis polyploids
Starting date (negotiable): April 2022
Project summary: Whole genome duplication (polyploidisation) is a dramatic and widespread mutation in nature, however, with controversial impact on adaptation and diversification. The frequency of polyploid origins and the manifestation of the adaptive potential of polyploidy is dependent on the thermal environment. A cold environment promotes the formation of unreduced gametes, directly affecting polyploid formation and establishment, and it alleviates the initial meiotic shock by restoring fertility in nascent polyploids, providing novel opportunities for polyploid adaptation and expansion. This project about the role of temperature in the origin and evolutionary success of polyploids will be done in close collaboration with the group of Polina Novikova at the Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research, Cologne, Germany, including short term research stays.
Requirements: The successful candidate should bring a broad and strong interest in evolutionary biology. Methods within the project will focus on ecological experiments, genomics of adaptation, and cytogenetics. Previous experience in these fields is beneficial but not strictly required. Excellent communication skills are required for this position, as the candidate will become part of an international team and international collaborations.
Why you should join us: We offer a creative and supportive scientific atmosphere, which will give you the opportunity to develop your scientific career. You will experience a fun mix of the Czech and international scientific environment, which, together with the vibrant cultural life of Prague, will provide you a unique research and life experience.
You are interested and have questions? Write to roswitha [dot] schmickl
natur [dot] cuni [dot] cz (roswitha.schmickl [@] natur.cuni.cz)
You are interested and want to apply? Send your application via the STARS programme of Charles University: https://stars-natur.cz/phd-positions/biology/the-role-of-temperature-in-the-origin-and-evolutionary-success-of-arabidopsis-polyploids?back=0tif0
Reviewing of applications will begin on 14th March 2022 and will continue until the position has been filled. The start date is flexibel, at earliest from April 2022.