Evolutionary Genetics Group at Charles University in Prague A PhD position is available The fate of immortality: Understanding the mechanisms of germline-soma distinction in birds Application deadline: March 30th, 2025 Position is for 4 years and starts in October 2025 The early specification of the immortal germline and the development of a truly disposable soma, whose main function is to carry the germline to the next generation, is a key innovation of animals with many important evolutionary consequences. However, the genetic and molecular mechanisms behind the germline-soma distinction are still poorly understood. This project aims to investigate the mechanisms of germline specification in songbirds, where germline-soma differentiation is associated with the elimination of so-called germline-restricted chromosome from somatic cells during early development. The project will combine state-of-the-art genomic and cytogenetic approaches with CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing. The PhD candidate should have experience in molecular biology, genetics and/or developmental biology. The results will have implications not only for understanding the development of the immortal animal germline, but also for studies of animal infertility and cancerogenesis, as cancers share many characteristics with immortal germ cells. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to work in an interdisciplinary team of young researchers experienced in cytogenetics, genomics and bioinformatics. Where we are based: Our group is based at the Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, which belongs to the leading research institutions in the Czech Republic. The Faculty of Science is situated in the center of Prague, one of the world's most beautiful and monumental cities. How to apply: If interested, please, send (1) CV, (2) motivation letter and (3) contact details for 2 referees to Radka Reifova (radka.reifova@natur.cuni.cz) by 30th March 2025. Contact: Radka Reifov�, Department of Zoology (radka.reifova@natur.cuni.cz). RNDr. Radka Reifov�, Ph.D. Phone: +420 221 95 1852 E-mail: radka.reifova@natur.cuni.cz, radkas@natur.cuni.cz Web page: www.natur.cuni.cz/~radkas/ Department of Zoology Charles University Faculty of Science Vinicn� 7, 128 44 Praha 2 Katedra zoologie Univerzita Karlova Pr�rodovedeck� fakulta Vinicn� 7, 128 44 Praha 2 Radka Reifov� (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to golding@mcmaster.ca)