PhD position on auxin signaling pathways that steer plant morphogenesis

Project description

An ERC Consolidator grant-funded PhD position is available in the group of Dr. Matyáš Fendrych at the Institute of Experimental Botany, Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czechia. Auxin steers morphogenesis of plant organs, but the signaling pathways that connect auxin perception with auxin responses such as ion fluxes across the membrane and modification of cell walls are still elusive. The aim of the project is to harness the genetic tools available in the team to elucidate the molecular machinery that underlies rapid auxin responses in plants. Methodologically, the project will employ protein biochemistry methods such as proximity labeling with advanced imaging techniques and developmental genetic tools.

About the lab and IEB institute

The team of Matyáš Fendrych (https://pm.ueb.cas.cz/) is a group of young enthusiasts who focus on the dynamics of morphogenesis in plants. We combine advanced microscopy methods with molecular biological tools to grasp the molecular processes that steer plant development.

The Institute of Experimental Botany (http://www.ueb.cas.cz/) is a leading institution in plant molecular, cellular and developmental biology with and exceptional in-house imaging facility and excellent protein biochemistry methods.

We require

• MSc degree in Biology or related fields (in autumn 2024 at the latest)
• experience in (plant) molecular biology
• strong motivation for molecular biology research and learning new methods
• excellent English communication skills
• desirable but not required: expertise with protein biochemistry methods

We offer

• young dynamic research team and intensive interaction with both the team members and the PI
• a 4-year PhD position with competitive salary and PhD scholarship
• An exciting project incorporated into a prestigious MORpH ERC CoG project that will use a combination of cutting edge biochemical and image analysis methods
• support in career development and growth towards independence
• support with onboarding of foreign employees via the Staff Welcome Center
• a beautiful and safe city of Prague

How to apply?

Send one PDF document with the following information to fendryc1@natur.cuni.cz by March 30 2024. The envisioned start of the PhD program is in October 2024.

• A 1–page summary of your motivation for the position, your research experiences, and future goals
• Detailed CV
• Contact information of 2 referees