We are offering a PhD position in cell biology, imaging & image processing for 36 months in the area of plant sciences at the University of Zürich, Switzerland. The position is built on (i) a research project contributing knowledge towards elucidating chromatin-based controls of plant reproduction and (ii) a secondment in an image analysis software company (Bitplane AG) in the area of scientific application & communication. The project is part of a EU-funded PhD programme in Science & Policy (RESPONSE DP, see below)
The applicant should have experience in fluorescence microscopy imaging (3D confocal microscopy and alike) and image analysis as well as a genuine interest in learning advanced approaches in the field. Experience in Imaris-based image processing is not necessary but an asset. Applicants with experience in animal cell biology are welcome (training in plant sciences is not a must; but interest of the field should be shown).
Experimental approaches include fresh tissue preparation and imaging of live reporters, whole-mount immunostaining and imaging, focusing on plant reproductive structures (in young flower buds) labelled for chromatin, cell boundary and cell wall components. Functional analysis of a set of mutants impaired in chromatin controls and ovule growth will determine the impact of candidate pathways on female germline initiation.
The candidate should have a real motivation and interest in working with an image analysis software company to develop competences in the field of scientific application & communication. The internship includes training and interaction with both the R&D and marketing/application specialists.
Links:
1. RESPONSE DP: www.plantsciences.uzh.ch/en/research/fellowships/response.html
2. Baroux’ lab: www.botinst.uzh.ch/en/research/development/celiabaroux.html
3. Bitplane, AG: www.bitplane.com
Application: Science & Policy doctoral programme, see details on the Link (1) above.
For questions about the project: Célia Baroux, cbaroux@botinst.uzh.ch
To apply for this job email your details to cbaroux@botinst.uzh.ch