The Rink laboratory (Department of Regeneration and Tissue Dynamics) investigates the evolution of whole-body regeneration and other fascinating traits in planarian flatworms. We sequence and mine planarian genomes to probe gene regulatory mechanisms in the model species S. mediterranea and the mechanistic basis of trait evolution in our unique live collection of “wild” planarian species that we steadily expand via worldwide field expeditions. In addition, the rapid evolution of planarian genomes, together with their abundant adult pluripotent stem cells and asexual reproduction by fission/regeneration without a single-cell bottleneck, pose several intriguing research opportunities:

1. DNA repair mechanisms as potential drivers of the rapid structural genome divergence:  Projects could entail functional characterizations of the planarian DNA repair machinery, experimental evolution assays, and mapping of DNA repair scars.
2. Multi-scale population dynamics in fissiparous populations:  Current challenges/opportunities include the quantification of standing genomic diversity within individuals by single-cell genomics and/or other techniques, quantifications of allele population dynamics within individuals, and the possibility of multi-scale selection phenomena at the level of stem cells, the organism, and populations of organisms.  
3. Comparative genomics: Existing genomes and ongoing assembly efforts invite the exploration of the genomic causes of asexuality in the fissiparous strain of the model species S. mediterranea, cave adaptations in the genome of a troglomorphic species, or the gene regulatory underpinnings of regeneration defects in new collection species.

We are looking for interesting and interested scientists who are passionate about tackling fundamental high-risk/high-reward questions and who are ready to make the most out of the rich Max Planck research environment. Hands-on research experience and a proven track record in one or more of the following areas is a must: Comparative genome mining, cancer genomics, population genomics, structural genomics, single cell genomics, genome sequencing/assembly. Candidates will be expected to design and drive their own research projects, with the above topics as possible starting points. Self-motivation and independence are therefore required, but we also strongly value collaboration and sharing of expertise within and beyond the department. The position(s) are available immediately, but later start dates are possible.