Polo GGB Genomics Genetics and Biology is a highly specialised Italian private enterprise operating in the Life Sciences field and focusing on research and development of genetics, genomics, and bioinformatics solutions and delivery of services to the academic and public/private sectors. Polo GGB receives substantial international funding in individual grants and as a partner of research consortia and projects, including Target Malaria, ISIDORe, and SCENARIOS.
The Ecology and Genetics branch of Polo GGB, based in Terni (Italy), is a cutting-edge research centre working on vector mosquitoes. The centre is equipped with unique facilities for the generation, rearing and studying genetically modified mosquitoes in a large cage environment mimicking tropical conditions.
Position Summary
One postdoctoral researcher position is available immediately in the Ecology and Genetics Research Centre to work under the supervision of Dr Chrysanthi Taxiarchi and Dr Jaroslaw Krzywinski on an exciting project funded by the Gates Foundation aimed at generating and testing novel genetic approaches to control and counter-act CRISPR-based gene drives developed for malaria control.
For relevant publications see: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41587-020-0658-1, https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-021-24214-5, https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-2831470/v1.
The candidate will interact with insectary and molecular biology teams to design experiments aimed at assessing key genetic, behavioural and fitness parameters of genetically modified mosquitoes for confined release trials. The successful candidate is expected to have a strong background in experimental genetics and a practical or theoretical understanding of mathematical modelling for population dynamics; experience in molecular biology is a plus. A background in the field and/or experience working with insects (e.g. mosquitoes, flies) or CRISPR would be desirable but not necessary.
REQUIREMENTS
- Ph.D. in Genetic Engineering, Molecular Biology or closely related field.
- Expertise and hands-on experience in:
- experimental genetics
- statistical analysis of data
- molecular cloning
- population genetics and modelling (desirable)
- insect biology (desirable)
Demonstrated experience in experimental design, data acquisition, analysis, and manuscript preparation evidenced by first-author publications in peer-reviewed journals and/or submitted manuscripts.
Personal Skills
- Highly motivated to perform cutting-edge research and publish in top-quality journals
- Able to plan, conduct, and analyse experiments with little supervision.
- Meticulous attention to details, well-organised in performing experiments and record keeping.
- Excellent interpersonal and collaborative skills.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English
Start Date
Positions available immediately.
Employment duration
Two years, with a possibility of extension dependent on the availability of funds.
To apply
Please, send your CV, cover letter, and contact details of 2 referees to: hr@pologgb.com
Inquiries can be directed to Dr Jaroslaw Krzywinski (j.krzywinski@pologgb.com) and Dr Chrysanthi Taxiarchi (c.taxiarchi@pologgb.com).
Additional information
Polo GGB is committed to equal opportunity in the terms and conditions of employment for job applicants without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, gender identity or gender expression, national origin. Please, deliver your CV to: hr@pologgb.com and specifying into object field: “POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCHER”, explicitly authorizing the treatment of your sensible and personal data in compliance with Italian law in force D.Lgs. 196/2003
