Salary: According to the guidelines of the Swiss National Science Foundation. 

Project duration: 3 years

The genus Petunia comprises closely related species with different pollination syndromes. P. axillaris has white, scented flowers and is pollinated by nocturnal hawkmoths. Hummingbird-pollinated P. exserta flowers are red, non-scented and differ in floral morphology. We are interested in the molecular-genetic basis of the evolutionary shift between these pollination syndromes. The project will focus on the evolution of loss and gain of scent production (see Klahre et al. Curr Biol 21: 730, 2011). The successful applicant will undertake the molecular identification of the genes(s) underlying a major scent QTL involved in the shift from moth to hummingbird pollination syndromes. Techniques include classical and molecular genetics, high-throughput transcriptomics and bioinformatics. In addition, pollinator choice assays with near isogenic lines will be performed under controlled laboratory conditions as well as in the natural habitat.

MSc in molecular genetics, quantitative genetics or molecular ecology. Strong background in bioinformatics is an asset.

Application
The single pdf file should include curriculum vitae, copies of diplomas and transcripts, motivation letter and contact details of three references.

Inquiries and address of application
Prof. Cris Kuhlemeier
Institute of Plant Sciences
Altenbergrain 21
CH-3013 Bern
tel. +41 31 631 4913
e-mail cris.kuhlemeier(at)ips.unibe.ch
http://www.botany.unibe.ch/deve/research/projects/pollinator.php

Starting date: The position is available immediately

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