Ph.D. position in the field of plant breeding research

The Institute of Plant Breeding, Seed Science and Population Genetics of the University of Hohenheim in Stuttgart, Germany in collaboration with the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), in India, Niger, and Mali, are seeking applications for a Ph.D. position in the field of plant breeding research.

The PhD project entitled "Development of allele-specific molecular markers for genes controlling photoperiod sensitivity of flowering time in pearl millet and sorghum" aims at the identification of candidate genes for photoperiod-sensitive flowering in pearl millet and sorghum. Marker/trait associations will be analysed with the objective to develop selective markers based on single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and/or INsertions/DELetions (INDELs) in the genes controlling photoperiodic sensitivity. The position requires a sound scientific background with proven experiences in quantitative methods in biosciences on an advanced level as well as good communication skills. Practical laboratory experience including the use of PCR techniques is inevitable.

The three-year position is open to candidates with an excellent MSc degree in Agriculture (preferably related to Plant Breeding) or in Molecular Biology with a good background in statistical genetics. Candidates need to fulfil the requirements for a doctorate in Germany. The salary is according to German public service pay scale BAT II/2 (approximately 22,000EUR p.a., 27,500$ p.a.).

Please address inquiries and applications with CV, certificates with transcripts and ranking as well as abstracts of the MSc thesis and names of two referees until August 15, 2006, to:

http://www.uni-hohenheim.de/pz