2 PhD student positions (Grupo de David Vilchez en el CECAD-University of Cologne)

Two PhD student positions are available in the group of David Vilchez at the Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD). Our group is interested in studying how human embryonic stem cells maintain the integrity of their proteome. Given the observation that embryonic stem cells replicate continuously in the absence of senescence, we hypothesize that these cells could provide a novel paradigm to study the regulation of proteostasis and its failure in aging. Our laboratory uses an innovative approach based on a combination of human stem cells research with genetic analysis in C. elegans to uncover new mechanisms for extending longevity and healthspan
The successful candidate must have a degree (master/diploma) in science (e.g. biology or biochemistry). We seek enthusiastic and highly motivated students interested in stem cell and aging research. Fluency in written and spoken English is required.
The research environment in the Cologne campus is stimulating and dynamic, and offers many interactions with other groups interested in mitochondrial medicine, the Max-Planck-Institute for the Biology of Aging, and integration in the Cluster of Excellence in Aging Associated Diseases (CECAD).

How to apply
Candidates should send:
1) Curriculum vitae.
2) Written summary of research achievements and/or research interests (max one page).
3) A reprint of significant publications (if any).
4) The contact details of two referees.
Applications should be sent by email as ONE Pdf document to David Vilchez (dvilchez@uni-koeln.de) for the application is January 31th, 2014.