PhD position in global change biology Germany

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June 2, 2008

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 climate 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 increases further.

The PhD candidate will develop and apply genetic markers (e.g., microsatellites, AFLP, sequence data) to investigate 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 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 a all facilities required for this research (fully equipped molecular lab, laboratories for sample sorting and microscopical analysis, field equipment). Gelnhausen is a quaint, small town in close proximity to Frankfurt am Main. The city has a pictureque 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 a unique international transport connection, 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.

Scholarship Tags: Biology, change, germany, Global, PhD, Position