in "Functional analyses in unicellular relatives of metazoans"
Overview
Our research objective is to understand the origin of metazoan
multicellularity. Our group has recently obtained the genome sequence of
several unicellular relatives of Metazoa, such as Capsaspora owczarzaki
and Creolimax fragrantissima. Surprisingly, we found that several
genes involved in multicellularity (such as integrins, cadherins,
tyrosine kinases and several transcription factors) are present in these
single-celled taxa. The project aims to unravel the function of some
genes key for multicellularity (specifically transcription factors)
in these animal’s unicellular relatives. To this end, we have
recently developed some genetic tools in both Capsaspora owczarzaki
and Creolimax fragrantissima. The applicant, besides working with the
techniques available, is expected to play a role in trying to expand
the techniques available. For further information on research goals
see www.multicellgenome.com
Position
This is a full time position for a period of 24 months, starting as soon
as possible (and no later than 1/11/2014). This position may be extended
an extra year, subject to satisfactory progress and funding.The post
holder will be strongly encouraged to develop fellowship applications
to extend the project and appropriate mentoring will be available.
Place of work
The Institute of Evolutionary Biology (Pompeu Fabra University-Spanish
Research Council) provides a unique opportunity to conduct this
research (see http://www.ibe.upf-csic.es/). The Institute is located in
Barcelona’s waterfront, adjacent to the Biomedical Parc of Barcelona
(PRBB) and Hospital del Mar, forming the most important research cluster
in Barcelona, and providing access to start-of-the art technological
facilities. The group has a strong tradition in evolutionary biology
and the analysis of protist genomes(www.multicellgenome.com). The city
of Barcelona is a vibrant, modern city with very good living standards.
Eligibility
The successful applicant will hold a PhD in the biological sciences with
an strong background in cell biology, microbiology, and/or developmental
biology. A proven experience in transgenesis is essential. Expertise
with model organisms (yeast, Dictyostellium, Drosophila, etc), as well as
proficiency in microscopy are a plus. You must have excellent scientific
communication, presentation and writing skills, as well as very good
critical and analytical problem solving skills.
Application procedure
If interested, please apply by sending a cover letter that describes the
motivation to work on the project, a CV, a brief statement of research
experiences and interests, and contact information for at least two
academic references as PDF files to jobs@multicellgenome.com. To
discuss this role informally, please contact Dr. Iñaki Ruiz-Trillo
(inaki.ruiz@ub.edu), T 34-93.230.95.00-ext. 6026. Closing date: 22
February 2014.
Iñaki Ruiz-Trillo
