Phd Or Postdoc Position Modelling the Spread of Transgenes

Vacancynumber: DPW 07.17G

PhD or Postdoc position "Modelling the spread of transgenes"

University of Groningen, Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Studies

Context of the project: The introduction of transgenic crops raises some important environmental safety issues. One matter of concern is the question whether, and to what extent, gene flow involving transgenes significantly affects the population ecology of wild relatives. To assess the ecological implications of the genetic modification of crops the Dutch Science Foundation (NWO, launched the new research initiative 'Ecology Regarding Gene-modified Organisms' (ERGO). In the context of ERGO, the research programme "Introgression of crop (trans-)genes into wild relatives: hybrid fitness, background selection and hitchhiking" is a joint effort of research groups at the University of Groningen, the University of Amsterdam and Wageningen University. This programme comprises four integrated projects that combine an experimental approach (focusing on the wild lettuce species Lactuca serriola) with a theoretical modelling approach. In addition to the theoretical project advertised here, there are two open PhD positions for the experimental projects.

Job description: In the project "Modelling the ecological implications of the spread from transgenic crops into wild relatives" simulation models will be developed for the spatial dispersal of transgenes (vegetatively or through pollen or seeds) in wild populations. The main objective is to predict the dispersal pattern and invasion prospects of a transgene on the basis of the life history of the plant species involved. The potential effect of transgenes on dispersal characteristics will receive special attention. In a long-term perspective, the projects aims at the development of general-purpose predictive tools for scientists and decision-makers alike. To achieve this goal, it is crucial to first perform a detailed analysis for specific well-studied model organisms like L.serriola. This theoretical project will therefore strongly reflect progress in the three experimental projects. The models resulting from the project will be integrated and validated with existing data, including those generated for L. serriola.

Profile: For this challenging, multidisciplinary project we are looking for a highly motivated biologist (MSc or equivalent) with a strong background in modelling, population genetics and/or population biology. Experience with programming (preferably C++) is required. Proficiency in English (both oral and written) and excellent communication skills are indispensible for this integrative project. Although we are in the first place looking for a PhD student, qualified PostDocs are also invited to apply.

Organization: The position will be embedded in the Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Studies (CEES, a centre of excellence on ecology and evolution in the Netherlands. It will be carried out under the supervision of Prof. Kuke Bijlsma from the Evolutionary Biology Group ( and Prof. Franjo Weissing from the Theoretical Biology Group ( Both groups have excellent facilities, including a pc-cluster for running computer simulations. PhD students have the opportunity to participate in the national Research School Functional Ecology (

Conditions of employment: PhD students are first employed for a period of one year, with a possible extension of three more years. Salaries are according to the standard salary scale for PhD students with an estimated salary of € 1956,- per month in the first year, increasing to a monthly salary of € 2502,- in the fourth year. For PostDocs, salary and project duration depend on personal details like qualifications and working experience.

Additional information: Prof. Dr. Kuke Bijlsma (, Tel: +31 50 363 2117) or Prof. Dr. Franjo Weissing (, Tel: +31 50 363 2131)

Application: Applications (including a detailed letter of motivation, a CV, a complete list of courses followed and grades received, and the names and addresses of three potential referees) should be sent before 25 May 2007 to: Wageningen UR, Plant Sciences Group, Mrs. T. Schultz, P.O. Box 16, 6700 AA Wageningen, The Netherlands or by Email to: . When applying always mention explicitly the vacancy number DPW 07.17G.