Ph.D. in modelling neuropsychiatric disorders in Drosophila

A three year Ph.D. in modelling neuropsychiatric disorders in Drosophila, is available from 01-01-2016 or soon thereafter at the Section for Cell and Neurobiology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.

Project

The group uses the fruit fly Drosophila as a model to decipher the genetic causes of neuropsychiatric disorders. Recent genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified copy number variants (CNVs) that disrupt a limited number of genes to be associated with high risk of schizophrenia. Despite the major discoveries of these genetic variants, the biological impact underlying the disease remains poorly understood. Characterization of the specific disease-causing genes and the underlying mechanisms in animal models based on the limited number of genes affected by these CNVs is the key to a greater understanding of the pathology of schizophrenia. The fruit fly Drosophila offers an attractive model for uncovering the CNV genes implicated in the pathogenesis of schizophrenia.

The aim of the project is to identify the impact of individual CNV genes by studying neurological and behavioral alterations to identify the functional deficits causing schizophrenia.

The place of employment is at the section for Cell and Neurobiology, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen.

Qualifications

We are looking for a highly motivated and ambitious scientist with the following qualifications:

• M.Sc. in Biology, Molecular biosciences, Genetics or other similar fields
• Experience with molecular genetics and animal behavior
• Experience with invertebrate model organisms
• Ability to communicate in written and spoken English is required
• Good communication and interpersonal skills

Application

Applicants are requested to submit their application electronically by using the link below including:

• A letter of motivation for the application with statement of research interests (max 1 page)
• A curriculum vitae (max 2 pages)
• List of publications (if applicable)
• Copy of Bachelor and Masters Diplomas and transcripts - other relevant certificates, including grades
• A short abstract of the M.Sc. thesis or equivalent
• Contact details of at least two persons for references

Procedures

After the expiry of the deadline for applications, the authorized recruitment manager selects applicants for assessment on the advice of the Interview Committee. All applicants are then immediately notified whether their application has been passed for assessment by an expert assessment committee. Selected applicants are notified of the composition of the committee and each applicant has the opportunity to comment on the part of the assessment that relates to the applicant himself/herself.



The final selection of successful candidates will be made by the Head of Department, based on the recommendations of the assessment committee. Successful candidates will then be requested to formally apply for enrolment as a PhD student at the PhD school of the Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen. For more information see: http://www.science.ku.dk/english/research/phd 



Terms of salary and employment

Terms of appointment and payment are in accordance with the agreement between the Danish Ministry of Finance and the Danish Federation of Professional Associations (AC). The starting salary for candidates with an MSc degree will be a minimum of DKK 306,667 (April 2015 level) plus pension contribution, with the possibility of salary negotiation.



The University of Copenhagen wishes to reflect the diversity of society and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.



The deadline for applications is December 17, 2016.



Applications received after the deadline, or with insufficient documentation or otherwise not complying with the above requirements, may not be considered. It is expected that the successful candidate will be enrolled at the PhD School of Science no later than February 1st, 2016 or soon thereafter.

For further information please contact: Associate Professor Kim Furbo Rewitz kim.rewitz@bio.ku.dk . **Please do not post your application to this address**