Position Summary
Position:
Department:
Cluster of Excellence for Plant Sciences (CEPLAS)
Institute:
Heinrich Heine University
Country:
Germany
Research Field:
molecular plant sciences, genetics, quantitative biology, computational biology
Posted Date:
Feb 11, 2026
Deadline:
Mar 18, 2026
Offer Period:
3 Years
Offer Start Date:
Jun 01, 2026
PhD Position in From genebank diversity to cellular networks: to optimise shoot meristem activities (2 Post)
Description:
A. Identifying and characterizing barley diversity to enhance regulation of meristem development (A. Backhaus, IPK, L. Dixon, IPK, M. von Korff, HHU, N. Stein, IPK)
- Barley is an important global crop that reliably produces yield on marginal land, making it increasingly valuable in regions affected by heat, drought, and poor soil quality. A key determinant of yield is spike architecture, particularly the formation and rate of spikelet development. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying spikelet development in adaptation to local photoperiod and temperature variations are yet to be characterised.
The aim of this project is to identify allelic variation that controls shoot meristem development and thus spike development, an important factor of grain yield, in response to environmental variation.
In this project, we will develop a focused sub-set of barley germplasm from the IPK genebank which maximizes spike developmental diversity. Subsequently, the germplasm will be used to quantify spike developmental rate and architecture under variable environmental conditions and use this phenotypic information to identify causative QTLs, generate new germplasm, and start to characterize the underlying molecular framework in collaboration with project B.
Qualifications needed
- Good bioinformatic skills including use of R and or python;
- Background in molecular plant biology and/or genetics
B. Dissecting Meristem Regulatory Networks in barley via Single-Nucleus RNA Sequencing (M. von Korff, HHU, A. Backhaus, IPK, L. Dixon, IPK)
- Barley displays natural variation in shoot and spike architecture and, consequently, in grain yield in response to environmental cues. This variation is governed by genetic differences that influence shoot apical meristem development, underscoring its central role in environmental adaptation. Recent advances in snRNA and scRNA sequencing, combined with spatial transcriptomics, have revealed distinct cell populations and domains within the meristem that coordinate spikelet and floret initiation. Despite these advances, the mechanistic relationship between changes in cellular transcriptional networks and the rate and number of spikelet and floret initiation remains poorly understood. The major aim of this project is to use natural genetic and environmental variation established in project A to identify causal links among genetic diversity, meristem-level regulatory processes, and inflorescence development and morphology, including spikelet and floret number.
Qualifications needed
- plant genetics, molecular biology, statistics, bioinformatics
- If needed: Dissecting Meristem Regulatory Networks via Single-Nucleus RNA Sequencing
Required Qualification:
Essential Qualification:
- M.Sc. in molecular plant sciences, genetics, quantitative biology, computational biology or a related discipline
- Research experience in the relevant field
- High level of English language proficiency
- Strong motivation to conduct a scientific project in an international, interdisciplinary research environment
- Motivation to contribute to a dynamic and diverse academic community
- Excellent communication, organizational, and analytical skills
Preferred Qualification:
- Background in geography, GIS or climate data modelling (advantage but not needed);
Employment Conditions and Benefits:
Contract duration:
- Limited until:31.05.2029
Benefits:
- CEPLAS creates a dynamic, international, and interdisciplinary research environment in plant science. We offer state-of-the-art laboratories and facilities, structured doctoral training within our CEPLAS Graduate School, as well as further career development support.
- The place of employment is determined by the respective research project. The employment is initially limited to a period of three years, starting on June 1, 2026 (or as agreed) with the possibility of a one-year extension.
- We offer qualification positions within the meaning of the Act on Fixed-Term Employment Contracts in Academia (Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz-WissZeitVG), which serves to promote the scientific qualification of the employee.
- The respective funding conditions of the individual partners apply. Salary is based, depending on the personal qualification of the applicant and the respective funding conditions of the individual partners, up to pay grade 13 TV-L for HHU, UoC and IPK /TVöD-Bund for FZJ and MPIPZ, 65%).
Application Process:
Documents Required:
- Motivation letter including a statement for which project you apply
- CV including publications (if applicable)
- Contact info of two references
- Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees and transcript of records
How to apply:
- Applications are accepted exclusively via the HHU application portal until March 18, 2026. It is required to state in your motivation letter for which project you apply. Here’s a list of the documents required for the application (please upload as one single PDF file < 5 MB):
About the Host Lab Group/Institution:
The Cluster of Excellence for Plant Sciences CEPLAS is a joint initiative of Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf (HHU), the University of Cologne (UoC), the Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research Cologne (MPIPZ), Forschungszentrum Jülich (FZJ) and the Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK) Gatersleben. CEPLAS develops innovative strategies for sustainable plant production and promotes innovative training programs for early career researchers. Detailed information about CEPLAS and the CEPLAS Graduate School is available at www.ceplas.eu. All participating institutions are equal opportunity and family-friendly employers and strive for gender equality and excellence through diversity. Applications from people of all genders are expressly welcome. Applications from women will be given preferential consideration in accordance with the State Equal Opportunities Act. The application of severely disabled persons and persons with equivalent disabilities is also welcome. In order for a severe disability or equality to be taken into account, please provide evidence of this with suitable documents. General information of HHU Heinrich Heine University upholds the principle of "Excellence through Diversity". It has signed the "Diversity Charter" and successfully participated in the Stifterverband's audit "Shaping Diversity". It is certified as a family-friendly university and has set itself the goal of promoting diversity among its staff. Applications from people of all genders are expressly welcome. Applications from women will be given preferential consideration in accordance with the State Equal Opportunities Act. The application of severely disabled persons and persons with equivalent disabilities is also welcome. In order for a severe disability or equality to be taken into account, please provide evidence of this with suitable documents.
Explore Other Similar Positions:
You may also be interested in the following PhD positions. These opportunities are currently open across universities and research institutes worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Who can apply for a PhD position?
PhD positions are open to candidates who hold, or will soon complete, a relevant Master’s degree or equivalent qualification in a related field. Specific academic requirements may vary depending on the institution and research project.
Can international candidates apply?
Yes. Most PhD positions are open to international applicants. Universities usually provide support for visa applications and residence permits, subject to national regulations.
Is a Master’s degree mandatory for applying to a PhD?
In most cases, a completed Master’s degree is required. However, some institutions may consider exceptional candidates with strong academic backgrounds or integrated Master–PhD programs.
What is the typical duration of a PhD program?
A PhD program typically lasts 3 to 5 years, depending on the country, funding scheme, and research field. Some programs may allow extensions under specific circumstances.
Is the PhD position fully funded?
Most advertised PhD positions are fully funded and include a monthly salary or stipend. Funding details, tuition coverage, and benefits are usually specified in the job description.
Are PhD candidates considered students or employees?
This depends on the country and institution. In many European countries, PhD candidates are employed as staff members, while in others they may be registered as students receiving a stipend.
Are teaching responsibilities included in PhD positions?
Teaching duties vary by institution. Some PhD positions include teaching or lab supervision, while others are research-only. The exact expectations are described in each job advertisement.
Disclaimer:
This position is published for informational purposes. Please refer to the official application link for the most accurate and up-to-date details.