Bioinformatics analysis of molecular mimicry in pathogenic fungi (Ref.No. 110/2015)

The Graduate School of Excellence ‘JSMC’ invites applications for a
Doctoral Researcher Position TV-L E13 65% (Ref.No. 110/2015)
to conduct research on the project

Bioinformatics analysis of molecular mimicry in pathogenic fungi

Several pathogenic fungi show molecular mimicry (deceptive signalling). Candida albicans binds the human complement factor H to hide from the immune system. The immune system should minimize the number of false negatives (pathogens not recognized as such) as well as minimize the number of false positives (cause of autoimmunity). The goal of this project is to understand various evasion strategies of the pathogens based on mimicry. Mathematical modelling and evolutionary game theory should be used.

More projects details here: http://www.jsmc.uni-jena.de/phd-program/fellowship-application/vacant-projects/jsmc-projects/

We expect:
• a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in one of the Natural Sciences (preferably interdisciplinary field such as bioinformatics). Candidates about to earn their degree are welcome to apply.
• desirable methodological skills: biomathematics, mathematical modelling, computer programming
• high motivation and interest to join one of the interdisciplinary research areas of JSMC
• creativity and interest to shape your own thesis project
• an integrative and cooperative personality with enthusiasm for actively participating in the lively JSMC Community
• very good communication skills in English (instruction language at JSMC)

We offer:
• a highly communicative atmosphere within a scientific network providing top-level research facilities
• a doctoral researcher position (TV-L E13, 65%) with guaranteed funding for two years based on the regulations of the German Research Foundation as well as generous research funding with the possibility of extended funding for one full additional year
• a comprehensive mentoring program with supervision by a team of advisors
• a top-level PhD training program with courses in state-of-the-art research technologies and soft skills
• Jena –City of Science: a young and lively town with dynamic business activities, successful scientific centers of innovation and a vibrant cultural scene around the famous Friedrich Schiller University

The Jena School for Microbial Communication (JSMC) is funded by the German Excellence Initiative. JSMC is an ambitious Graduate School with over 150 doctoral researchers who are educated in a structured, interdisciplinary training program based on top-level fundamental research. It conceptionally combines different research areas to a comprehensive picture of microbial communication (www.jsmc.uni-jena.de). Institutes at five faculties of the Friedrich Schiller University Jena, six non-university research institutes as well as 12 partner companies are participating in this cutting-edge research and training program.
Friedrich Schiller University Jena is an equal opportunity employer.

The application procedure takes place exclusively online via the JSMC website:

https://www.uni-jena.de/jsmc_online_application/

Please acquaint yourself with the open PhD projects and the application process described on this website.
Selected applicants will be invited to the JSMC Recruitment Meeting in Jena, Germany, on May 11th-13th, 2015. Awarding decisions will be made shortly thereafter, allowing the projects to start immediately.

Application deadline: March 13th, 2015