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Postdoc­toral Re­searcher in Plant Mo­lecu­lar Biology

Employer
UNIVERSITY OF HELSINKI
Location
Helsinki, Finland
Closing date
15 Aug 2021

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Academic Discipline
Biological Sciences, Life sciences
Job Type
Academic Posts, Postdocs
Contract Type
Fixed Term
Hours
Full Time

Helsinki Institute of Life Science (HiLIFE) - Institute of Biotechnology (BI), located in the Viikki science park, is a research institute at the University of Helsinki. The institute harbors ~35 research groups and 250 researchers and comprehensive core facilities for molecular, biochemical and cell biological research. HiLIFE operates at the highest international level.

Newly established research group of Academy Research Fellow Anne Vatén at HiLIFE invites applications for a

POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCHER

in plant molecular biology to study stomatal development and its regulation by complex environmental variables.

Stomata are small sealable epidermal pores, which regulate gas-exchange between the plant and its environment. Stomata form as a result of regulated asymmetric divisions of stomatal precursor cells called meristemoids. We revealed that meristemoid divisions are controlled by a feedback loop consisting of stomatal master regulator and hormone signaling pathway and this feedback loop is required for fine-tuned stomatal numbers. This project aims to investigate the function of this feedback loop upon environmental changes, identify what are the other pathways modulating stomata production during environmental fluctuations, and reveal, how signal integration between various pathways is executed to achieve tightly regulated stomatal numbers. Moreover, this project studies stomatal development and plasticity in gymnosperms by using Norway spruce (Picea abies) as a model.

We are looking for a dedicated and enthusiastic candidate with a doctoral degree in molecular or cell biology, developmental biology or other relevant field. Knowledge of and practical experience in molecular plant sciences are considered an advantage.

We value independent and creative thinking and eagerness to learn new. Ability to plan, execute, and complete research project, and good writing and communication skills in English are essential. The candidate should work well in a team as she/he will be integrated into an international research team of experts in plant developmental biology. This position will also provide opportunities for collaborations.

The postdoctoral researcher position is initially limited to 2 years with a possibility of extension. A trial period of 6 months will be applied, and the salary will be based on the University salary scheme for teaching and research personnel composed of task specific and personal performance components.

Application should include the following documents as a single pdf file:

  • CV
  • list of publications
  • motivation letter including a description of your research interests
  • contact information of two persons who can provide a reference letter based on request

Please submit your application, together with the required attachments, through the University of Helsinki electronic recruitment system by clicking the “Apply for the position” - link below. Applicants employed by the University of Helsinki must submit their application through the SAP HR portal.

The deadline for the applications is 15th of August 2021.

For more information, please contact the principal investigator Dr Anne Vaten: anne.vaten@helsinki.fi

For technical support regarding the recruitment system, please contact rekrytointi@helsinki.fi.

References:

Vatén A, Bergmann DC. Mechanisms of stomatal development: an evolutionary view. EvoDevo (2012) 3: 11

Vatén A, Soyars CL, Tarr PT, Nimchuk ZL, Bergmann DC. “Modulation of asymmetric division diversity through cytokinin and SPEECHLESS regulatory interactions in the Arabidopsis stomatal lineage” Developmental Cell (2018) 47: 53-66

Lopez-Anido CB, Vatén A, Smoot NK, Sharma N, Guo V, Gong Y, Anleu Gil MX, Weimer AK, Bergmann DC. Single-cell resolution of lineage trajectories in the Arabidopsis stomatal lineage and developing leaf” Developmental Cell (2021) 56: 1043-1055

Finland is a member of the EU, has high quality free schooling (also in English), generous family benefits and healthcare, and was recently ranked as the best country in the world for expat families and in the world’s top ten most livable cities. Finland and the Helsinki region possess top expertise in sciences in terms of a vibrant talent pool, leading research, strong support services and functioning collaboration networks. For more information about working at the University of Helsinki and living in Finland, please see helsinki.fi/en/university/working-at-the-university.

Helsinki Institute of Life Science (HiLIFE) is a new institute established in 2017 that supports high quality life science research across the University campuses and faculties. HiLIFE builds on existing strengths and new recruits and partnerships to create an attractive international environment for researchers to solve grand challenges in health, food, and environment. HiLIFE coordinates research infrastructures in life sciences and provides research-based interdisciplinary training. The Viikki Plant Science Centre (ViPS) offers a stimulating high impact research environment for plant biologists (https://www.helsinki.fi/en/researchgroups/viikki-plant-science-centre).

The University of Helsinki, founded in 1640, is one of the world’s leading universities for multidisciplinary research. The university has an international academic community of 40,000 students and staff members. The University of Helsinki offers comprehensive services to its employees, including occupational health care and health insurance, sports facilities, and professional development opportunities. The International Staff Services office assists employees from abroad with their transition to work and life in Finland.

Due date

15.08.2021 23:59 EEST

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