PhD position studying small RNA inheritance in plants

We are looking for a PhD candidate to lead an innovative project characterizing small RNA-mediated epigenetic inheritance in plants.

In addition to genetic information hard coded in DNA sequences, parents can chemically modify their chromatin to record information acquired during their life, and then transmit this epigenetic information to their progeny. Although such epigenetic inheritance challenges textbook views of inheritance and has important implications for evolution, agriculture and human health, the mechanisms of this atypical mode of inheritance have mostly remained elusive. In plants, small RNAs direct DNA methylation of transposons and genes during embryogenesis and are ideal vectors to transmit epigenetic information from parents to their offspring. In this project, you will employ a range of cutting-edge molecular biology and genomic approaches to discover the mechanisms and functions of small RNAs that are transmitted from parents to their offspring during reproduction.

To elucidate this novel type of small RNA-based inheritance, you will employ state-of-the-art molecular biology, genetics, genomics, microscopy and computational biology approaches in Arabidopsis thaliana. Although this project will focus on understanding fundamental aspects of intergenerational small RNA inheritance, your research could also lead to the development of innovative biotechnology applications for the plant breeding industry.

Function Requirements:

You have an MSc degree in biology or will possess one by the intended start date.

You also have:

• A strong interest in RNA biology, epigenetics and plant molecular biology
• Research experience in a genetic, molecular or cellular biology laboratory
• An MSc student’s level of knowledge in molecular and cellular biology, plant sciences or a related discipline
• Proficiency in English (both oral and written)
• Strong communication and team player skills.
• This vacancy will be listed up to and including 30 September 2024. We hope to schedule the first job interviews on 10 October 2024.