PhD Student (f/m/d)

About the Project

Join the “Meiosis” research group at the IPK in frame of the collaborative BMFTR-funded project “MZF: TWIN-3”. Our team is interested in the process of plant meiosis that generates genetic variation harnessed in plant breeding.

PhD Research Topic: Natural Meiotic Recombination Variation to Accelerate Barley Breeding

Objectives: Exploit natural genetic variation in meiotic recombination to overcome breeding barriers in barley. The project combines in silico analyses, molecular cytogenetics, single‑pollen nucleus genotyping, and genetic mapping to unlock natural genetic diversity from wild relatives and improve barley resilience and breeding efficiency.

Your tasks:

• In silico allele mining: Screen natural genetic variation in meiosis-related genes using genomic datasets, predict structural impacts with tools like AlphaFold, and identify candidates for experimental validation.
• Molecular cytogenetics: Conduct chromosome analysis, immunolocalization and high-resolution microscopy (3D-SIM, PALM) to characterize meiotic phenotypes, and use single-pollen nucleus genotyping to quantify crossover rates.
• Genetic mapping: Evaluate meiotic variants in segregating populations to assess their impact on hybrid and interspecific crossover rates to inform breeding strategies.

Your qualifications and skills:

• You hold a MSc degree (or equivalent) in biology, biochemistry, crop science or a related field at the PhD start.
• Practical experience in chromosome and molecular biology as well as working with plants is strongly desirable.

You fit to us:

• if you are fascinated by chromosome biology and have a strong interest in molecular biology and microscopy.
• if you have a strong scientific curiosity and motivation.
• if you enjoy working in an interdisciplinary team.
• if you have solid oral and written English skills.

We offer you:

• to work in a world-class research center with state-of-the-art facilities and scientists from all over the world.
• a collegial and collaborative working atmosphere.
• a 3-year PhD position, starting earliest by 01.07.2026.
• a gross salary up to 65% E13 TV-L.