Bioinformatics doctoral position (f/m/x) in the field of plant-microbe interactions Wiss2408-04 | Institute for Plant Sciences | Group Zuccaro | Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences

Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences
Bioinformatics doctoral position (f/m/x) in the field of plant-microbe interactions
Institute for Plant Sciences | Group Zuccaro

We are one of the largest and oldest universities in Europe and one of the most important employers in our region. Our broad range of subjects, the dynamic development of our main research areas and our central location in Cologne make us attractive for students and researchers from around the world. We offer a wide range of career opportunities in science, technology, and administration.

We are seeking a highly motivated and talented PhD candidate (f/m/x) to join our cutting-edge research team. Our focus is on understanding the molecular mechanisms by which microbial effectors influence plant physiology and immunity. By leveraging advanced bioinformatics tools and techniques, you will unravel the complex interplay between plants and their microbial partners.
If you are passionate about bioinformatics and eager to contribute to understanding how the composition and activity of plant microbiota are co-determined by host nutritional and metabolic status, as well as by host immunity and edaphic factors, we invite you to join the dynamic team led by Professor Dr Zuccaro at the Institute for Plant Sciences.

YOUR TASKS

• Develop and apply computational tools for the analysis of (meta)genome and (meta)transcriptome and/or amplicon sequencing
• Advance our understanding on how beneficial and detrimental microbes tightly regulate the expression of effector genes, their function and regulation in different plant hosts and in response to other microbes
• Closely interact with computer scientists and experimental biologists
• Employ computational approaches to deepen our understanding of the evolution and functions of plant microbiota

YOUR PROFILE

• Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Biology, Genetics, Microbiology, Bioinformatics or a related field
• Experience with molecular biology techniques and bioinformatic analyses
• Drive, curiosity and creativity as well as a strong ability to solve problems through critical analytical thinking
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Ability to work independently and contribute to collaborative research efforts
• Fluent in English

WE OFFER

• A strongly motivated, international and committed team
• A diverse working environment with equal opportunities
• Support in balancing work and family life
• Extensive advanced training opportunities
• Occupational health management offers
• Flexible working time models

The University of Cologne promotes equal opportunities and diversity. Women will be considered preferentially in accordance with the Equal Opportunities Act of North Rhine-Westphalia (Landesgleichstellungsgesetz – LGG NRW). We also expressly welcome applications from all suitable candidates regardless of their gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, disability, age, sexual orientation and identity.

The position is available from 01.11.2024 on a part-time basis (25,89 hours per week/ 65%). It is limited for 3 years. If the applicant meets the relevant wage requirements and personal qualifications, the salary will be based on remuneration group 13 TV-L of the pay scale for the German public sector.
Please apply online with proof of the required qualifications without a photo under: https://jobportal.uni-koeln.de. The reference number is Wiss2408-04. The application deadline is 15.09.2024.
For further inquiries, please contact Dr Eileen Cors (ecors1@uni-koeln.de).