Graduate Assistant in Plant Genetics

Introduction

UNIL is a leading international teaching and research institution, with over 5,000 employees and 17,000 students split between its Dorigny campus, CHUV and Epalinges. As an employer, UNIL encourages excellence, individual recognition and responsibility.

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Presentation

Prof. Sebastian Soyk is recruiting a Graduate Assistant in Plant Genetics to join his research group at the Department for Molecular Plant Biology (DBMV) at the University of Lausanne (UNIL). The Soyk lab investigates genetic and molecular mechanisms that regulate stem cell differentiation in plants and studies how stem cell activities changed during crop domestication.

Job information

Expected start date in position : 01.11.2026 / or to be agreed

Contract length : 1 year, renewable 2 x 2 years, maximum 5 years

Activity rate : 90%

Workplace : Lausanne-Dorigny

Your responsibilities

The candidate will join a highly motivated and diverse group of researchers who study the molecular genetics and genomics of crop domestication using tomato and related species as model system. The successful candidate will perform research on a project to investigate the architecture and function of gene regulatory sequences that regulate flower production in tomato. The candidate will conduct cutting-edge approaches in molecular biology and genomics, including high-resolution RNA imaging, gene expression analyses, and precision genome editing. The project will include wet and dry lab experiments, and activities in growth chambers and greenhouses. The candidate is expected to closely collaborate with other group members and external collaborators. We encourage candidates with diverse backgrounds to apply. At least half of the working time will be dedicated to the doctoral research. The rest of the time will be dedicated to various academic functions including some teaching assistance of undergraduate biology students.

Your qualifications

We are a dynamic research group looking for highly motivated and talented candidates with a strong interest in gene expression regulation, genome structure and function, development, and crop evolution. Applicants should hold a MSc degree (or equivalent) with a strong background in biology and have an interest in plant science. Advanced knowledge of genetics and molecular biology is essential, together with a strong motivation to learn new concepts and develop new methods and techniques. Experience in confocal microscopy and genome editing would be advantageous. Candidates should be excited about science, highly organized, and capable of working independently and within the team, and are expected to be fluent in English (spoken and written).

What the position offers you

The Soyk lab is hosted at the Department for Plant Molecular Biology (DBMV) at the University of Lausanne (UNIL), a vibrant, well-funded institute with access to state-of-the-art core facilities for genomics, proteomics, imaging, and bioinformatics. Embedded in the broader Lausanne research environment that includes two schools of higher education (UNIL, EPFL) and a cluster of biotech companies flourishing in the larger Leman lake area, we offer a great working place in a multicultural, diversified and dynamic academic environment. The PhD student will be enrolled in the doctoral school of the Faculty of Biology and Medicine.

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Contact for further information

Informal enquiries should be sent to Prof. Sebastian Soyk E-Mail schreiben

Your application

Deadline: until filled

Please submit your full application in one single PDF file comprising: (1) short motivation letter detailing your research interests and experience, (2) CV, (3) a copy of your Master’s degree certificate (or equivalent), and (4) contact details for 2-3 academic referees.

Only applications through this website will be taken into account.

We thank you for your understanding.

Additional information

UNIL is committed to:
•    equality, diversity and inclusion within its community;
•    ensuring an open and respectful environment that is conducive to personal development;
•    offering working conditions that facilitate work-life balance;
•    supporting early career researchers.

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