PhD Student in Ecology, with specialization in Marine Microbial Ecology

Linnaeus University is the result of a merger between Kalmar University and Växjö University. Together we will be creating a new, exciting university with 31 000 students and 2 000 employees. Linnaeus University is a modern, international university in the Småland region of Sweden, where people can grow to reach their potential. For more information see: Lnu.se

The Department of Biology and Environmental Science is part of the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences. The research activities within this multidisciplinary department include the areas of aquatic ecology, cell and organism biology, evolutionary biology, microbiology, environmental science and environmental engineering as well as zoonotic ecology. 

Project title: Exploring genetic responses of marine bacteria to environmental challenges.
The research project. The last decade, genome reports on relevant components of aquatic bacterial communities have generated insights into genes and metabolisms important for the bacteria in relation to the environment where they live. These advances have allowed the first definitions of genomic signatures (i.e. genes or gene markers) that characterize bacteria with different life strategies. However, until present, few attempts, if any, have been made to apply this knowledge for defining the environmental status of seawater. The objective of this project is to experimentally investigate responses in key diagnostic genes to selected external drivers/stressors. With this objective, we will carry out ecophysiological response experiments with genome-sequenced model bacteria to establish causal links between key environmental stressors and genetic signatures and selected nutrient fluxes/biogeochemical process rates of bacteria. Analyses will involve state-of-the-art techniques in microbiology and molecular biology (e.g. gene expression analyses by next-generation sequencing methodologies).

Applicants should have a minimum of a good undergraduate degree (240hp/240ECTS). Basic requirements for post-graduate studies are laid out in the Swedish Higher Education Ordinance (Högskoleförordningen), Chapter 7. Candidates with experience in research in ecology or microbial ecology, especially using molecular biology approaches (preferably also experience with transcriptomics work) and bioinformatics, are encouraged to apply.
 
The PhD studies are limited to 4 years (100%) but may be extended to 5 years through teaching at the undergraduate level. Successful completion of the post-graduate studies will lead to a PhD in Ecology with emphasis in microbiology. The position is located in Kalmar, Sweden.

For further information please contact Docent Jarone Pinhassi (jarone.pinhassi@lnu.se), +46-(0)480-446212; Head of Department Tommy Claesson (tommy.claesson@lnu.se), +46-(0)480-446238; or Personnel Officer Therese Gullander (therese.gullander@lnu.se), +46-(0)480-446996.
 
Union representatives may be contacted via the university switchboard at +46-772-288000.

Applications, you apply through www.lnu.se. Closing date for application is December 20, 2013. Mark your application with reference number PA 2013/531-2.2.1.
 The application (in English) should contain a CV (with telephone and e-mail), documentation of exams and grades, a description of motivation and experiences relevant to the research project and any other documentation that the applicant would like to present. The candidates should also provide contact details (including telephone number and e-mail address) of two reference persons.