Switching to a new pollinator requires coordinated changes in multiple floral traits, such as color, UV absorption and morphology. We use combinations of genetics, genomics, molecular biology, population genetics and behavioral assays to identify and characterize the genes that are responsible for the evolutionary shifts between bee-, hawkmoth- or hummingbird-mediated pollination in wild Petunia. See: Hoballah et al, Plant Cell 2007; Klahre et al, Curr Biol 2011; Hermann et al, Curr Biol 2013; Sheehan et al. Nature Genet 2016; Amrad et al, Curr Biol 2016; Esfeld et al, Curr Biol, 2018.
The project will involve the identification of the causative mutations in these genes by a variety of techniques including genomics, transcriptomics, promoter analysis, transient expression assays, transgenics and CRISPR-mediated gene editing.
We are looking for a postdoc with a strong background in molecular biology/genetics and an interest in evolutionary biology. We offer a creative and stimulating international scientific environment and high end facilities. The lab language is English.
The city of Bern is the capital of Switzerland and provides an attractive international living environment (https://www.bern.com/en/home).
The position is for up to 3 years and is available immediately. Applications will be continuously evaluated until the deadline of March 31, 2019. Your application should be a single pdf file with curriculum vitae, copies of diplomas and transcripts, motivation letter stating your research interest and contact details of three references.
Address for application and further information:
Prof. Cris Kuhlemeier
Email: cris.kuhlemeier(at)ips.unibe.ch
Tel: +41 31 631 4913 http://www.ips.unibe.ch/research/deve/projects/index_eng.html