We are seeking a motivated PhD student for the project “Evolution of epithelial differentiation in the skin of vertebrates” at the Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna.
The project
The aim of the project is to determine the molecular mechanisms and evolution of epithelial cell differentiation in the skin of vertebrates. In preceding projects we have identified protein components and cross-linking mechanisms in the epidermis and skin appendages of mammals and non-mammalian vertebrates.
These studies have provided new insights into the molecular architecture and evolution of the skin barrier, hair, feathers and claws (doi: 10.1038/s41467-024-46373-x, Nat. Commun. 2024; doi: 10.1093/molbev/msae100, Mol. Biol. Evol. 2024; doi: 10.1093/molbev/msz279, Mol. Biol.
Evol. 2020). The current study focuses on an as-yet uncharacterized mode of epithelial cell differentiation which will be investigated in comparison to other types of cell differentiation mechanisms.
The methods include comparative genomics, molecular phylogenetics, histology, cell culture and the analysis of recombinant proteins. The project is supported by the Austrian Science Fund, FWF (Project PAT8918924) and involves the cooperation with excellent international research partners.
Your profile
We are looking for a motivated candidate with a Master’s degree in molecular biology, evolutionary biology, biochemistry, biomedical sciences or a related field, and a strong interest in the biology of skin and/or functions of proteins.
You should be fascinated by basic research questions and able to efficiently work both independently and within an interdisciplinary team. Experience in methods of molecular biology and bioinformatic data analysis is advantageous.
Our offer
Exciting science in a productive research environment
Support of scientific creativity
Work in an international and multidisciplinary team
Participation in a PhD program of the Medical University of Vienna
Salary according to the regulations of the Austrian Science Fund, FWF
Please send your application including motivation letter and CV (pdf, maximum 2 MB) to leopold.eckhart(at)meduniwien.ac.at. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
Fachgebiet
Molecular Biology, Evolutionary Biology, Biochemistry
Arbeitgeber
Medical University of Vienna
Arbeitsstätte
Medical University of Vienna
Antrittsdatum
01.02.2027
Bewerbungsfrist
10.12.2026
Kontakt
Leopold Eckhart leopold.eckhart(at)meduniwien.ac.at