The main goal of this postdoctoral position is to study the molecular mechanisms responsible for transcriptional activation of the Drosophila embryo after egg fertilization.

This will help us to better understand how is transcription initiated de novo in a previously quiescent genome, what are the transcription factors involved, and to what extent chromatin remodeling plays an important role in this process.

Candidates must have a Ph.D. in Biological sciences or equivalent. Preferential consideration will be given to candidates with previous experience in Chromatin Immunoprecipitation techniques and Drosophila melanogaster genetics.

Curriculum Vitae, contacts of previous supervisors, and a Letter of Motivation should be sent by mail or e-mail to the following address:

Rui Gonçalo Martinho - Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência
Apartado 14 - 2781-901 OEIRAS
Email: rmartinho@igc.gulbenkian.pt

http://www.igc.gulbenkian.pt/research/unit/70

Net salary: €1.495.00/month; as a reference this is 3.5 times the Portuguese minimum salary.

Application Period: From 5th September 2009 until 4th December 2009.

The IGC's scientific interests are centered on the genetic basis of development and evolution of complex systems, privileging organism-centred approaches and using experimental models that include plants, yeast, flies, frogs and mice. A strong theoretical sector is also one of the IGC's specificities.