Two PhD positions are available at the Section for Computional and RNA Biology, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen starting in April 2018 or as soon as possible thereafter.
 

Project
 

The 3-year project aims at understanding mechanisms and biological functions of post-transcriptional gene regulation via small RNAs and RNA modifications in plants.
 

The group uses the plant Arabidopsis thaliana as model organism, and we use a variety of genetic, biochemical, biophysical and bioinformatic techniques in our work. We are interested in obtaining a molecular understanding of how plant cells distinguish self from non-self RNA, and how this distinction is coupled to amplification of siRNAs on non-self RNA templates. We are also interested in addressing how newly synthesized small RNAs get efficiently incorporated into active silencing complexes.
 

Qualifications
 

We are looking for highly motivated individuals with an M.Sc. degree in molecular biology or similar. Prior knowledge of RNA silencing and experience with Arabidopsis as a model system are advantages, but not strict requirements. The positions are open to all applicants regardless of nationality.
 

Application
 

The application must contain:
 

• A letter of motivation for the application, explaining the applicants background and reasons for applying
 

• A curriculum vitae (max 1 page)
 

• List of peer-reviewed publications (may include papers under review)
 

• Copy of Bachelor and Masters Diplomas and transcripts – other relevant certificates, including grades.
 

Candidates are encouraged to include abstracts of papers in press or under review. Letters of recommendation may be included at the end of the application or sent directly by the referee.
 

Procedures and shortlisting
 

After the expiry of the deadline for applications, the authorized recruitment manager selects applicants for assessment on the advice of the Interview Committee. Afterwards an assessment committee will be appointed to evaluate the selected applications. The applicants will be notified of the composition of the committee and the final selection of a successful candidate will be made by the Head of Department, based on the recommendations of the assessment committee and the interview committee.
 

The main criterion for selection will be the research potential of the applicant and the above mentioned skills. The successful candidates will then be requested to formally apply for enrolment as a PhD student at the PhD school of Science. You can read more about the recruitment process at

http://employment.ku.dk/faculty/recruitment-process/

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Terms of employment
 

The positions are covered by the Memorandum on Job Structure for Academic Staff.
 

Terms of appointment and payment accord to the agreement between the Ministry of Finance and The Danish Confederation of Professional Associations on Academics in the State.
 

The starting salary is currently at a minimum DKK 317.448 including annual supplement (+ pension up to DKK 43.848). Negotiation for salary supplement is possible.
 

The University wishes our staff to reflect the diversity of society and thus welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.
 

Application procedure
 

The application, in English, must be submitted electronically by clicking APPLY NOW below.
 

The deadline for applications is February 20, 2018, 23:59 GMT+1
 

For further information on the projects please contact Associate Professor Peter Brodersen, email [email protected]
 

Part of the International Alliance of Research Universities (IARU), and among Europe’s top-ranking universities, the University of Copenhagen promotes research and teaching of the highest international standard. Rich in tradition and modern in outlook, the University gives students and staff the opportunity to cultivate their talent in an ambitious and informal environment. An effective organisation – with good working conditions and a collaborative work culture – creates the ideal framework for a successful academic career.