Dear all, we have an open PhD position in my group for a project on "Evolutionary cell biology of signal transduction networks from primitive eukaryotes to higher plants" sponsored by the NWO TOP-GO program. see below or here: http://www-binf.bio.uu.nl/snel/group.html#jobs sincerely yours, Berend Snel, PhD *PhD position in Evolutionary cell biology of signal transduction networks from primitive eukaryotes to higher plants (NWO TOP-GO)* Snel Lab, Theoretical Biology and Bioinformatics, Utrecht University Utrecht University is inviting applications for a PhD position in the bioinformatic investigation of evolution and functioning of the molecular signaling networks that regulate plant growth. Plants have complicated signaling networks to regulate growth. Preliminary results suggest that these systems are the result of a combination of the emergence of novel pathways and adaptation of pre-existing pathways. The aim is reconstruct the evolution of these systems, first from the common eukaryotic ancestor to animals, fungi and primitive algae and secondly from algae to primitive plants (such as mosses and ferns) and higher plants (such as the plant model organism Arabidopsis thaliana). The methods for this reconstruction are comparative genomics to study the gene loss, gain and duplication of the core pathway components as well as integrative bioinformatics to study the rewiring of the network. The results of the research should provide fundamental insights into evolution as well as predictions on signaling interactions in plants, which will be tested within the framework of existing collaborations with experimental labs of Utrecht University. The candidates are offered a full-time position for four years. *Qualifications* We are looking for highly motivated individuals with experience, or an interest, in biology and training in bioinformatic analysis. Applicants should possess hands on experience with sequence analysis or expression data analysis, as well as experience with a scripting language (such as perl or python). The persons to be hired should communicate easily in English, both verbally and in writing. *How to apply* Please send your CV, along with a cover letter outlining your specific qualifications for the preferred positions including contact information for at least two references to Dr. Berend Snel, B.Snel@uu.nl.