PhD - Forensic Entomology MSCA Doctoral Network NATURAL TRACES

"Knowledge becomes health" - we are filling this motto with life every day, developing new ideas and improv-ing old-established knowledge. The University Hospital Frankfurt has existed since 1914. Our around 8,500 employees contribute with their skills and knowledge to the 33 specialist clinics, theoretical clinical institutes, and administrative departments. The close connection of health care with research and teaching, as well as a climate of collegiality, internationality, and cross-professional cooperation characterize the university hospital.

PhD - Forensic Entomology MSCA Doctoral Network NATURAL TRACES

(We are targeting applicants of all genders)
Full time | limited to 3 years | Announcement number: 698-2024

The position is at the Institute of Legal Medicine (Director: Professor Dr Marcel A. Verhoff) as of 01/12/2024.

The primary objective of this position is to establish a reliable GC-MS-based analysis of cuticular hydrocarbons (CHC) or species-specific pattern analysis using Fourier-Transform-Infrared-Spectroscopy (FTIR) -tool kit for the identification and ageing of empty puparia of the major necrophagous fly species. It will be based on extensive laboratory breeding of morphologically well-identified fly species, but will also analyse material from real outdoor and indoor cases and field experiments on cadavers. It is a part of the European Training Network (ETN) «Natural Traces» (Project 101120165, Horizon Europe, see https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/101120165 )

This position is linked to the award of the doctoral degree (PhD) «Dr rer.nat .» at the Faculty of Biology of the University of Frankfurt.

Your role

Rearing of forensically important fly species
Establish a physical database/collection of puparia of forensically relevant fly species
Establish CHC- and FTIR-profiles for puparia of forensically relevant fly species
CHC and FTIR profiling of puparia from defined time periods (weeks, months, one year), and storage conditions (like e.g. soil versus room)
Analyze the main parameters influencing the plasticity of CHC and FTIR profiles, such as diet, heat stress or competition and check for possible transgenerational effects
Evaluating the robustness of the data and method on real case scenarios

Who you are

You have a Master degree (or EU-equivalent) in Biological Sciences or comparable disciplines.
It is mandatory that you do not hold a doctoral degree at the recruitment date.
It is mandatory that you should have no residency or main activity (work, studies, etc.) in Germany for more than 12 months in the 36 months before the recruitment date.
Expertise in «R» and statistical modeling.
First experiences with machine learning will be an advantage.
Experience in entomology will be an advantage.
Experience in GC-MS analysis will be an advantage.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team
You are friendly and open-minded, flexible and work in a committed and responsible manner.
You are proficient in MS Office and have very good written and spoken English skills.
Due to legal regulations, valid proof of measles immunity / measles vaccination is required.

What we offer

Collective agreement: In addition to an attractive salary based on a collective agreement with an annual special payment, you benefit from long-term security through company pension schemes

Mobility: Free public transport in all Hessen (Free State Ticket Hessen)

Campus: Our attractive university hospital campus offers a modern cafeteria, various cafes, and opportunities to rest in numerous green spaces. A walk on the riverside of the Main offers relaxation during breaks

Work-Life-Balance: Part-time employment is possible, we offer childcare in our daycare center (if you have any questions, please contact UKF-Familienservice), child care during holidays

Health Promotion: Benefit from our attractive health offers. We offer regular online and face-to-face courses on nutrition, relaxation, sports and exercise.

Professional development: Internal and external training for your professional development

Any questions? Many answers can be found in our FAQs for new employees. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Disabled applicants are preferred if they have the same personal and professional qualifications.

Join our team

Please apply by 16 September 2024, stating the call number and a possible start date. For further information, please contact Professor Dr Jens Amendt or Ms Anna Müller at amendt@em.uni-frankfurt.de and anna.mueller@em.uni-frankfurt.de or 069 / 6301 85414.

Apply now
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