-----Original Message----- From: bco-bounces@lists.oulu.fi [mailto:bco-bounces@lists.oulu.fi] On Behalf Of Anita Tienhaara Sent: 5. elokuuta 2014 13:09 To: finbionet Subject: [Bco] PhD position in evolution and development at the University of Helsinki
1.Job/ project description: The main objectives of the PhD project is to: a) Develop mathematical models of the relationship between genetic and phenotypic variation (or genotype-phenotype map) b) Understand how this relationship and the patterns of phenotypic variation possible by genetic variation in gene networks affect evolution. c) Develop models about the evolution of gene networks and embryonic development in general.
A core concept of current evolutionary biology is the genotype-phenotype (GP) map, which connects genetic variation to phenotypic variation and to potential for evolutionary change. The aim of the project is to develop or investigate models of the GP map that can be related to specific biological study systems or specific evolutionary questions investigated by the group. There is considerable flexibility as to the exact topics, and the interests of the candidate will be important in defining the study objects.
These models can be abstract or linked to specific biological systems. The biotechnology institute includes a range of experimental biologitst working on several systems. The supervisor of the theoretical aspects will be Dr. Salazar- Ciudad but would include close collaboration with Jukka Jernvall group and would include collaboration with developmental biologists, bioinformaticians, paleontologists and other evolutionary and systems biologists. The work may also include, optionally, collaboration, and spending some time, in Barcelona. The modeling can focus on gene network regulation, cell-cell communication, cell mechanical interactions and developmental mechanisms in general and, optionally, artifical in silico evolution.
2. Requirements: The applicant must be a biologists, preferably with a strong background in either evolutionary biology, developmental biology or theoretical biology. Some knowledge of ecology, zoology, cell and molecular biology are also desirable.
Bioinformaticians, systems biologists or computer biologists that do not have a degree in biology (e.g. Computer scientists, physicists or engineers) would not be considered (not replied).Programming skills or a willingness to acquire them is required. The most important requirement is a strong interest and motivation on science, gene networks and evolution. A capacity for creative and critical thinking is also desirable. Prior experience in evolutionary or developmental biology is an advantage, and the candidate may be required to do some programming (although how much may depend on the exact project).
3. Description of the position: PhD: The fellowship will be for a period of up to 4 years (100% research work: no teaching involved). The purpose of the fellowship is research training leading to the successful completion of a PhD degree. Salary according to Finnish PhD student salaries.
4. The application must include: -Application letter including a statement of interests -CV (summarizing degrees obtained, subjects included in degree and grades, average grade) -Application should be send to Isaac Salazar-Ciudad by email: isaac.salazar@helsinki.fi Foreign applicants are advised to attach an explanation of their University's grading system. Please remember that all documents should be in English.
5. Examples of recent publications by Isaac Salazar-Ciudad group. -Salazar-Ciudad I1, Marín-Riera M. Adaptive dynamics under development-based genotype- phenotype maps. Nature. 2013 May 16;497(7449):361-4. -Salazar-Ciudad I, Jernvall J. A computational model of teeth and the developmental origins of morphological variation. Nature. 2010 Mar 25;464(7288):583-6.
6. Interested candidates should check our group webpage: http://www.biocenter.helsinki.fi/salazar/index.html
The deadline is 20 of September (although candidates may be selected before).
-- Anita Tienhaara Project coordinator
"PhDs to Business Life" www.helsinki.fi/project/biobusiness/
Institute of Biotechnology P.O. Box 56 FI-00014 University of Helsinki FINLAND phone +358 50 318 5065
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