Graduate PhD position in Natural History Museum, Germany

June 20, 2008

Senckenberg.GlobalChangeGenetics

Graduate position:

A PhD position is available in global change biology/population
genetics at the Department of Limnology & Conservation, Senckenberg
Research Institute and Natural History Museum, Germany.

Current models suggest that global warming will lead to massive species
extinctions in the near future. It is expected that certain traits
increase susceptibility towards changing climate, including reduced
dispersal, low genetic diversity, small population size, isolation and
low tolerance towards temperature changes. In Europe, several
cold-adapted species of plants and animals persist as isolated glacial
relicts in high altitudes. Many of these species combine several, if not
all of the above-listed factors and may thus be among the first species
to become extinct if global temperature shows further increase.
The PhD candidate will develop and apply genetic markers (e.g.,
microsatellites, AFLP, sequence data) to investigate genetic population
structure in cold-adapted, montane species in central European mountain
ranges. In particular, research will focus on patterns of gene flow and
isolation among populations, inbreeding levels within isolated relict
populations, and to identify conservation units. Besides the molecular
part, field work and controlled laboratory experiments on temperature
and general stress tolerance will be conducted. The study is not focused
on a certain taxonomic group; research will thus likely comprise both
plant and animal species.
We are looking for a highly motivated student with a strong interest in
biodiversity, conservation and population genetics. The candidate is
expected to have some experience in the laboratory, ideally with the
application of microsatellite markers and/or DNA sequencing. Knowledge
of German language is no precondition, but we expect the willingness to
learn some German during the stay. A valid international drivers licence
is required for field sampling.
The Senckenberg Research Institute and Natural History Museum (head
quarter in Frankfurt am Main) is among the largest natural history
museums in Europe and has a longstanding tradition in high quality
biodiversity research. The Department of Limnology & Conservation is
located at the research station Gelnhausen. The station has all
facilities required for this research (fully equipped molecular lab,
laboratories for sample sorting and microscopical analysis, field
equipment). Gelnhausen is a quaint town in close proximity to Frankfurt
am Main. The city has a picturesque historic Old Town with several
historic sites from the medieval times and is surrounded by beautiful
mountain ranges. Frankfurt am Main, an international city with a rich
and diverse cultural life and unique international transport
connections, can be reached within 30 minutes by car or train.
In order to apply, please send an application sheet, CV, publication
list and contact data of two references per email to:

Dr. Carsten Nowak
Senckenberg Research Institute & Natural History Museum
Research station Gelnhausen, Dep. Limnology & Conservation
Email: cnowak@senckenberg.de
www.senckenberg.de

Applications will be considered until the position is filled.

Senckenberg wishes to increase the share of women in areas where they
are underrepresented, and strongly encourages women to apply.
Senckenberg has an affirmative action policy for the disabled and
especially encourages them to apply.

Graduate PhD position in Natural History Museum, Germany

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