The International Leibniz Research School (ILRS Jena) gives PhD students the possibility to prepare for their PhD exam in an ambitious program providing excellent research conditions.
We invite applications for a PhD Student Position (Ref.No. 04/2011)
The role of Desulfitobacterium spp. in the global network of O-demethylation in soil
Desulfitobacterium spp. are strictly anaerobic bacteria first isolated from environments contaminated with halogenated compounds. In 2004, it was shown, that at least two strains of Desulfitobacterium hafniense (DCB-2 and PCE-S) are able to use phenyl methyl ethers, which are degradation products of lignin, as electron donors. By then, only acetogens had been reported to convert these compounds under anoxic conditions. In contrast to acetogenic bacteria, Desulfitobacterium hafniense is not able to use CO2 as electron acceptor. For this reason, appropriate electron acceptors have to be provided by the soil microbial community. So far, it is not known what the physiological electron acceptors in natural environments, such as forest soils, are and which organisms provide these compounds.
The goal of the proposed project is to shed light on the role of Desulfitobacterium spp. in the global network of O-demethylation in soil. At the beginning of the project, different strains of Desulfitobacterium spp. will be studied with regard to their O-demethylation potential. Subsequently, FISH and PCR techniques will be used to identify Desulfitobacterium spp. and associated microorganisms as well as O-demethylase genes in soil. The experiments aim to elucidate the role of different O-demethylating anaerobes and supporting organisms involved in lignin degradation in natural habitats. The laboratory possesses established techniques for the isolation and cultivation of anaerobes and a special knowledge about O-demethylation processes in acetogenic bacteria that will serve as basis for the proposed studies.
We expect:
- a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Natural or Life Sciences. Research at ILRS is centred around “Microbial and Biomolecular Interactions”. Candidates about to earn their degree are welcome to apply.
- high motivation and interest to join one of the research areas of ILRS
- an integrative and cooperative personality
- very good communication skills in English
We offer:
- a top-level research environment
- efficient supervision by a team of supervisors
- a comprehensive mentoring program (cf. Program of Study)
- courses in state-of-the-art technologies and soft skills
- strong communication and interaction between the involved institutions
- Jena – City of Science: innovative business activities, successful scientific centres and a vibrant cultural scene around the famous Friedrich Schiller University
Further information:
Prof. Dr. Gabriele Diekert, PI
gabriele.diekert@uni-jena.de
Dr. Christine Vogler, ILRS Coordinator ilrs@hki-jena.de
For the first step of the application procedure please acquaint yourself with the scientific projects offered on our website
and thoroughly fill in the “Statement of Interest” form downloadable from this site. The application procedure is handled online exclusively via the ILRS website. Applications in English including the completed “Statement of Interest”, curriculum vitae, copies of relevant certificates (MSc, BSc, etc.), and references should be submitted to:
Deadline for application: November 30, 2011.