We are interested in understanding the diversity and evolution of pathogens and pathogen resistance in relatively short time scales, therefore we study different populations from a diverse and geographically differentiated tomato species, Solanum chilense. We have shown that different populations of this species show different levels of defence against a range of pathogens.
For this project we have collected hundreds of strains of of the naturally occurring pathogens (Alternaria spp.) from S. chilense plants throughout the species range in Chile and Peru. Infection assays reveal adaptation of the different strains to different populations of the host.
We are now looking for an enthusiastic Postdoc / PhD student to assess genetic diversity using whole genome sequencing (ONT) to study genomic adaptation of the pathogen to the different host populations and identify key genes and processes involved in this adaptation.
The applicant for the postdoc position must have a PhD in biology, bioinformatics or related disciplines. Knowledge and practical experience with ONT data, bioinformatics and population genetics are preferred. Applicants for the PhD postition must have a very good MSc in biology, bioinformatics or related disciplines. Knowledge of and practical experience in bioinformatics or population genetics are preferred but not required. Keen interest in molecular plant pathology is essential.
The project will be carried out in the group of Dr. Remco Stam at the Chair of Phytopathology (Prof. Dr. Ralph Hückelhoven) in collaboration with the Genome Centre Munich and Prof. Aurelien Tellier (TUM Population genetics). The Chair of Phytopathology hosts several research groups studying biology of plant pathogens and provides a very lively, international working environment. In addition, we have several ongoing collaborations on campus (including the large SFB924 project) and direct access to state of the art technology for next generation sequencing, diverse molecular biology techniques and extensive glass house facilities for phenotypic testing.
The Technical University of Munich wishes to increase the percentage of employed women. Women are therefore explicitly encouraged to apply. Handicapped persons with equivalent qualification will be given preference. The salary is according to German income level TV-L E13. The postdoc position is initially for 18 months, with the possibility to extend for another three years. The PhD position would be 3 years.
Please send your comprehensive application including a letter of motivation (1 page), your CV (including highlighted relevant publications if applying for the postdoc), certificates, list of publications, and names of 2 potential referees as a single pdf file by email to: stam@wzw.tum.de Informal inquiries about the position can be addressed to Dr. Remco Stam directly as well.
The position is to be filled as soon as possible.
Reviewing of applications will start the end of January 2020
