4-year PhD Position in Plant Regeneration

Job Description

Plants possess an unparalleled regeneration capacity, allowing them to survive severe stress conditions such as injury, herbivory attack, and dramatic weather conditions. Previously, we have identified within Arabidopsis thaliana key molecular components that control stem cell replenishment following cell death (1-5). In follow-up work, we aim to understand the pathways operating upstream and use this knowledge to increase the regeneration potential of difficult-to-propagate tree species. This project is financed by an ERC-Adv grant.

References

Y. Liang et al., The wound-activated ERF15 transcription factor drives Marchantia polymorpha regeneration by activating an oxylipin biosynthesis feedback loop. Sci Adv8, eabo7737 (2022).

B. Canher et al., Rocks in the auxin stream: wound-induced auxin accumulation and ERF115 expression synergistically drive stem cell regeneration. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA117, 16667-16677 (2020).

B. Canher et al., The regeneration factors ERF114 and ERF115 regulate auxin-mediated lateral root development in response to mechanical cues. Mol Plant,  (2022).

J. Heyman et al., The heterodimeric transcription factor complex ERF115-PAT1 grants regeneration competence. Nat. Plants2, 16165 (2016).

J. Heyman et al., ERF115 controls root quiescent center cell division and stem cell replenishment. Science342, 860-863 (2013).

Profile

Essential 

• Master’s degree in Plant Biotechnology, Plant Physiology, Biology, Molecular Biology, Physiology, or a related discipline.
• You are fluent in English (spoken and written).
• You are aware of today’s cutting-edge technologies and their possibilities (including CRISPR and new sequencing technologies).
• You have a good background in statistical analysis or bioinformatics

We offer

• A 4-year Ph.D. position.
• A multidisciplinary highly stimulating and supporting international research environment.
• Access to state-of-the-art tools and infrastructure.
• Mentoring, supervision, and training to be the next-generation scientist, including transferable skills training programs available through VIB and UGent.

How to apply? 

Motivated candidates are asked to apply online.

The application should consist of

• Your CV in pdf format
• Your motivation letter expressing your interest and suitability for the position (pdf format)
• A transcript of your Master’s degree
• A reference letter from your Master thesis supervisor and/or other references.

The first review of applications will start on November 3rd. A shortlist of applicants will be selected and invited for online interviews. 

The position remains open until a suitable candidate is found. The position can be started immediately.