About the Project
Background/Project: We study the interaction between root-colonizing fungi and plants, and characterize fungal isolates of Chaetomium, Botryosphaeria, Fusarium and Trichoderma, which grow under extreme conditions (e.g. 55°C, 3M NaCl) and confer the specific stress tolerance behaviors to their hosts. Using Arabidopsis thaliana as model system we investigate the molecular basis of these symbioses. The project starts with the microscopic and molecular characterization of the isolates under different stress conditions, their interaction with Arabidopsis roots (but also roots of other model plants), and the characterization of the benefits of both partners in the symbiosis under stress. These analyses include microscopic studies, measurements of photosynthetic parameters, metabolite profiling, volatile involvement, hormone analyses, nutrient exchange measurements, assays for fungal and plant fitness, as well as bioinformatics-based expression profiling. The interaction of the fungi with Arabidopsis mutants impaired in recognition of symbionts, signaling, hormone functions, innate immune responses, signaling leading to growth or stress adaptation, or specific metabolite pathways will shine light on mechanisms which are activated by the microbes in the stress-exposed hosts. Chemical mediators (soluble compounds or volatiles) which initiate and maintain the communication between both partners will be investigated. The molecular analysis should provide a basis for agricultural applications.
Candidate profile:
• A strong background in plant physiology, molecular biology and genetics
• Demonstrated expertise in molecular and genetic techniques
• Previous work with model plants is a plus
• Scientific and critical attitude
• Curiosity, creativity, and ambition
• Excellent time management and organizational skills
• Ability to interact with other scientists in the group
• Good communication skills
• Proficiency in written and spoken English
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