PhD Position (f/m/d)

Project on offer: Within the group of Teresa Fitzpatrick at the Department of Plant Sciences, University of Geneva in Switzerland, applications are invited for both a post-doctoral and a doctoral position to work on the molecular characterization of factors controlling B vitamin homeostasis and how this impacts plant fitness. We are currently interested in how certain B vitamins (focused on B₁ and B₆) are integrated into growth and developmental decisions in relation to nutritional environmental factors. In particular, how is vitamin B₁ or B₆ status recognized and does this have the power to influence metabolic and/or developmental programs under certain environmental situations. The project will use Arabidopsis and Lotus as key model organisms with opportunities to translate work to crop plants. The position requires a solid background in plant molecular biology and associated biochemistry techniques. Key skills that are currently in use in the lab include a combination of genetics, molecular and cell biology, biochemical and physiological techniques as well as protein biochemistry. State of the art equipment is available to enable these methods. Information on the lab may be accessed at http://www.unige.ch/fitzpatricklab/

Profile required: Applicants should have either recently received (less than 1 year) or expect to soon receive either a PhD in the case of the post-doc position or a MSc in the case of the doctoral position in plant metabolism or nutrient biochemistry with extensive knowledge of current methods associated with these disciplines. Previous experience with metabolite profiling by HPLC, fluorescence microscopy, as well as the characterization of plant metabolic and/or signaling pathways at the biochemical and physiological and genetic level would be a distinct advantage. The post holder should be able to work independently and show initiative within a multidisciplinary project area and collaborate with other members of the group. Proven ability of competence in the form of first author high impact publications is required in the case of the post-doc position.

Fluency in English is essential with both excellent oral and written communication skills expected.

Further details may be obtained by e-mailing theresa.fitzpatrick(at)unige.ch

What to do: Candidates should send a motivation letter, a detailed CV including publication record, a description of research interests and skills, together with the names and addresses of three referees to the above e-mail address. Engagement, depending on performance, can be up to 3 years for the post-doc and 5 years for the doctoral position. Deadline for application March 30^th 2023.

We always welcome applications from motivated, talented and creative people who are interested in the research topics of the lab.

If you’re interested in joining our lab, please follow the instructions below.

To apply either as a Postdoctoral fellow or as a Master student: please send your application dossier directly to Teresa Fitzpatrick. Your application should include a strong motivation letter, CV along with list of publications, proof of your academic qualifications as well as the names and contact details of 2/3 referees.

To apply as a PhD student: please apply through the newly launched International PhD program.