Post-doc grant (“Juan de la Cierva”)

Update: the application period has expired for this call.

The 2011 application period for the post-doc “Juan de la Cierva” programs has just opened. Our group might consider applicants with a good research trajectory willing to pursue  a successful career in the field of molecular biology of reproduction and germinal cell culture. We will appreciate previous experience on molecular and cell biology, but expertise in different fields should not be a problem. Multidisciplinary approaches to our current working lines might be of great value for us. A background in molecular biology, cell culture, image analysis, statistics, bioinformatics, bioengineering, and such would be an important added value for the group.

It is possible to apply if you plan to attain your PhD before July 2011.

We currently have two lines for this position (both of them supported by projects granted by the National Plan of R&D):

  • Research on the molecular basis of sperm DNA damage: DNA in mammal sperm is associated to protamines (PDNA) and histones (HDNA), an organization with likely epigenetic effects. HDNA include important sequences (telomeres and genes involved in early development), and may be more vulnerable to insults. Moreover, apoptotic markers such as PARP (poly-ADP ribose polymerase) may be related to increasing DNA damage. We are applying qPCR and flow cytometry in spermatozoa from small ruminants to characterize DNA damage and its effects in sperm fertility.
  • Primordial germ cell culture (zebrafish): The main goal of this project is to establish the culture conditions for primordial germ cells (PGC) and spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) allowing genetic manipulation of these cells in culture (gene transfer and knock out) and their further selection. We also propose to generate molecular tools to facilitate a better isolation of PGCs and SSCs in zebrafish.

If you want to work with us, send your CV and a brief proposal letter. If we consider your offer, we will fully support and help you during the application process. Important: the position relies on a successful application to the Juan de la Cierva program, therefore it is not guaranteed. Requirements are a good CV (specially publications) and less than 3 years of post-doctoral experience (Ph. D. after September 2007).

Applicants may submit their CV before February 1st.

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