Presentation
Prof. Sebastian Soyk, who will start a new research group at the Center for Integrative Genomics (CIG) at the University of Lausanne in August 2019, is recruiting Ph.D. students to work on an ERC Starting Grant funded project related to genet interactions during stem cell development in plants.

Job information
Expected start date: 01.08.2019 or to be agreed
Contract length: 1 year, renewable 2 x 2 years, max. 5 years.
Activity rate: 85% (minimum of 50% of the activity rate for research thesis, maximum of 50% of the activity for the institute).
Workplace: University of Lausanne, Dorigny

Your responsibilities
The research focus of the Soyk lab is to uncover gene interactions during stem cell development in plants, and to understand how such networks were shaped during crop domestication. We study gene interactions that guide flower and fruit development in the crop model tomato and related nightshades using approaches in genetics, genomics, and biochemistry. The project goals are:

• genome-wide transcriptional analyses of stem cell transcription factor networks,
• CRISPR-Cas9 editing of novel stem cell regulatory genes,
• identification of natural variation in flower development.

Funding for the position is available, but application to personal fellowship programs will be highly encouraged.

Your qualifications
We are a young research group looking for highly-motivated and talented students who are interested in plant stem cell biology and crop evolution.
Applicants should hold a Master’s degree or equivalent, with a strong background in biology and an interest in plant science.
Advanced knowledge of genetics and molecular biology is essential, together with a motivation to learn and develop new methods and techniques.
Experience in genome editing, plant tissue culture, and bioinformatics would be advantageous.
Candidates should be excited about science, highly organized, and capable of working independently and within the team, and are expected to be fluent in English (spoken and written).

What the position offers you
The Soyk lab is hosted at the Center for Integrative Genomics (CIG) at the University of Lausanne (UNIL), a vibrant, well-funded institute with a focus on functional genomics and equipped with state-of-the-art core facilities (see www.unil.ch/cig). Embedded in the broader Lausanne research environment that includes two schools of higher education (UNIL, EPFL), the Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Ludwig Center for Cancer Research, University Hospital, and a cluster of biotech companies flourishing in the larger Leman lake area, we offer a great working place in a multicultural, diversified and dynamic academic environment. The PhD student will be enrolled in the Faculty of Biology and Medicine’s doctoral school (https://www.unil.ch/ecoledoctoralefbm/en/home.html).

Contact for further information
Informal enquiries should be sent to Prof. Sebastian Soyk: ssoyk@cshl.edu

Your application
Deadline: March 17, 2019
Please submit your full application comprising:

• cover letter detailing your research interests and experience,
• CV,
• a copy of your Master’s degree certificate, and
• contact details for 2-3 academic referees.

Only applications through the UNIL recruitment website will be taken into account.

Additional information
UNIL is committed to promoting gender equality and strongly encourages applications from female candidates.