Postdoc: Plasticity and evolution of the Caenorhabditis germ line

A postdoc position is available in the lab of Christian Braendle (Institute of Developmental Biology and Cancer, Nice, France) to study the plasticity and evolution of the germ line in Caenorhabditis nematodes. The basic project aims are to mechanistically dissect the plastic adjustment of germ line proliferation and differentiation in response to changing environments, and to characterize evolutionary variation of such plasticity. Approaches will involve quantitative analyses of germ line development in different environments, developmental genetics, intra- and interspecific comparative analyses, and mapping of natural genetic variation in reproductive plasticity.
The successful candidate will be highly motivated and participate in the detailed planning of the project. The position is initially for one year and the start date is flexible but ideally at the beginning of 2011 (salary is around 2200 – 2500 Euros depending on experience). The position is funded by the French National Center for Scientific Research (CNRS) and open to all nationalities.
The IBDC is an international research institute hosting 15 teams working on diverse topics in developmental, cell and cancer biology. The institute, located in the city centre, has excellent research facilities and provides an interactive scientific environment.
To apply, send a summary of your research motivation and interests, CV, names and contact information for three references to Christian Braendle (braendle@unice.fr) in a single PDF file. For more information, please visit: rhttp://www.unice.fr/ibdc/ or contact me by e-mail.

Recent Publications:
Braendle C, Baer C & Félix MA 2010 Bias and evolution of the mutationally accessible phenotypic space in a developmental system PLoS Genetics, e1000877.

Braendle C & Félix MA 2008 Plasticity and errors of a robust developmental system in different environments. Developmental Cell, 15: 714-724.

Braendle C, Milloz J & Félix MA 2008 Mechanisms and evolution of environmental responses in Caenorhabditis elegans. Current Topics in Developmental Biology 80: 171-207.