Fully funded PhD Position: Molecular interactions between sperm and the female reproductive tract

Molecular interactions between sperm and oocytes have been thoroughly investigated, however
research on the crosstalk that occurs during the sperm's journey to the fertilization site has been
limited. While we have some knowledge of sperm surface proteins interacting with the components of
the female reproductive tract (FRT), the female counterparts of these interactions are still largely
unknown. The interactions between sperm and the FRT go beyond mere guidance and storage of sperm,
involving complex mechanisms for sperm selection. If we understand these natural quality control and
selection mechanisms, we can leverage them for sperm selection in assisted reproduction. During your
PhD project you will discover the molecular mechanisms behind sperm selection in the female
reproductive tract in situ and in vitro, establishing assays using FRT explants and/or cell culture in
different animal models.
This PhD project is a part of a collaboration between our two labs at INIA (Instituto Nacional de
Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria) of the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) and will
be co-supervised by us: Dr. Lena Arévalo (website) and Dr. Beatriz Fernandez-Fuertes (website).
You will be part of a young and dynamic, collaborative, and supportive team with access to state-of-the-
art facilities. We are committed to supportive mentoring, encouraging early independence, creativity,
and the pursuit of own research ideas. The position is for 3 years with the potential to extent for a
fourth year.
Organisation: Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA-CSIC)
Department: Department of Animal Reproduction (website)
Location: Madrid, Spain
Research Fields: Biology > Molecular Biology; Agriculture > Animal reproduction; Biomedicine >
Reproduction and fertility
Required education Level: Master Degree or equivalent
Starting Date: 01.10.2024
You have/are:
a MSc (or equivalent) degree in Molecular biology, Biomedicine, Veterinary Medicine, or related fields
experience with cell culture, ICC/IHC, western blot and standard molecular lab techniques (an
advantage, but not mandatory)
basic experience in bioinformatic analyses (an advantage, but not mandatory)
a drive and passion for academic research
proficient in English, both written and spoken
HOW TO APPLY:
Please send an email to lena.arevalo en inia.csic.es and beatriz.fernandez en inia.csic.es including:
Cover letter (max 1 page)
Curriculum Vitae (without photo)
A brief summary of your MSc thesis project (max 1 page)
Application Deadline: 23.06.2024