1 Postdoctoral Position in Systems Biology of X-inactivation in Germany | Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics

The Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics is an international research institute with approx. 350 employees, working in the field of molecular genetics. A special focus lies on functional genomics of man and other organisms. It is located in Berlin, a vibrant, young and international city.

In the Max Planck Research Group "Regulatory Networks in Stem Cells" (Otto-Warburg-Laboratory, Head: Dr. Edda Schulz), we are interested in how mammalian cells employ gene regulatory networks to switch and maintain transcriptional and epigenetic states. Specifically, we study the initiation of X-chromosome inactivation and how it is integrated with differentiation of mouse embryonic stem cells. We use an interdisciplinary systems biology approach, in which quantitative data, generated by single-cell and high-throughput techniques, is used to develop mathematical models of the regulatory network, which are then tested by experimental perturbations through genome engineering in mouse embryonic stem cells.

Responsibilities:

The group is seeking an outstanding postdoctoral scientist to perform a systems analysis of the complex regulatory network controling the onset of X-chromosome inactivation, an important epigenetic process early during development. The overall objective of this project is to gain a quantitative understanding of how cis- and trans-acting factors act together to ensure monoallelic and female-specific expression of the long non-coding RNA Xist, which initiates X-inactivation. In close collaboration with experimentalists in the group, the successful candidate will develop mathematical models, perform deterministic and stochastic simulations and estimate model parameters based on single-cell and high throughput data sets generated in mouse embryonic stem cells. Depending on interest and background there is also the possibility to participate in data generation.

DESIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

Qualifications:

We are seeking a highly motivated scientist (PhD in Systems Biology, Biophysics, Computational Biology, Bioinformatics or a related subject) with strong communication skills and a thorough understanding of mathematical modeling. The successful candidate should be experienced in computer programming (Matlab, Python, C++) and should have some expertise in data analysis, data fitting or image analysis. The position is available for 2 years with possibility of prolongation.