PhD candidates will perform their work at the University of Amsterdam and one of the partner institutions (18 months each, in two different countries) which can not be the home country of the candidate (see general information above). The partner institution in ESR2 is the Johannes Gutenberg Universität (Mainz, Germany).Topic of PhD thesis: “Fractal mechanism of silicatein self-assembly and biosilicification (Experimental studies and Modelling studies)”.
Research at Johannes Gutenberg Universität (Mainz, Germany): The fellow will investigate the mechanism of self-assembly of sponge silicatein and the intermediary formation of fractal aggregates. The effect of the molar ratio of the silicatein isoforms (? and ?) on the kinetics of this process as well as on the size and shape of the formed aggregates/ fibres will be determined. Research at the University of Amsterdam: A model will developed for the regulatory network controlling biosilicification in sponges. The processes in the regulatory network will be modelled at different levels of detail. Stochastic effects because of low molecule numbers and spatial inhomogeneties can be very relevant here. To incorporate this type of effects it is required to use different modelling paradigms (Monte Carlo simulations, particle - (individual-based) modelling, Ordinary Differential Equations and Partial Differential Equations) in combination. Modelling the biochemical reactions in a complex-shaped interface will require the application of particle-based methods.

Tasks

The PhD student will work on the molecular biology of biomineralization and on modelling biomineralization using methods from scientific computing.

Requirements

Candidates should have a master’s degree (or equivalent) in scientific computing or computational science, (computational) physics, chemistry, molecular biology or a comparable expertise. Candidates are expected to have expertise in modelling and scientific programming and an active interest in life science applications. One must have the ability to operate in an international research team. Fluency in oral and written English.

Further information

Further information can be obtained from: Dr J. A. Kaandorp, Informatics Institute, University of Amsterdam, Kruislaan 403, 1098 SJ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; tel. +31 20 525 7539; e-mail: J.A.Kaandorp@uva.nl; Prof. Dr. Dr. H.C Schröder, Johannes Gutenberg Universität, Mainz, Germany, e-mail hschroed@uni-mainz.de.

Appointment

This is a full-time appointment (38 hours a week) for a total of three years: an initial period of one year, followed by a further two years subject to a positive appraisal. It is expected to result in a PhD thesis. The salary will be in accordance with the University regulations for academic personnel, and will range from € 2.000,– to €2.558,– gross per month. The collective employment agreement of Dutch universities is applicable. Allowances will be paid in accordance with the rules for Marie Curie Initial Training Networks.

Job application

Applications should include a letter of motivation and a curriculum vitae. Please include the names and contact information of two references. Applications should be sent by e-mail to Mrs. J.C. Knaap-Cabi at application-science@uva.nl. The application period will remain open until the position is filled; however, review of applications will commence in November 2008, with the intent of filling the position as quickly as possible. Please mention the vacancy number and attach all relevant supporting documentation.
To process your application immediately, please quote the job reference code in the subject line.

Screening of applications will begin immediately and continue until the post is filled which is no later than 31 December 2008.