Drivers of polyploid genome evolution: repetitive DNA dynamics and chromosome rearrangements

The project will focus on rDNA evolution and organization in Amaranthus using molecular, cytogenetic, bioinformatic, and phylogenetic approaches to understand post-polyploidization genome evolution, including sequence variation and chromosomal localization. It also investigates karyotype evolution and chromosome number changes, including chromosome fusions and dysploidy, using oligo-labeling probes, fluorescent in situ hybridisation, and comparative cytogenetic analyses.

Research will be carried out in the frame of the project „Drivers of polyploid genome evolution: repetitive DNA dynamics and chromosome rearrangements” (number of the project 2025/59/B/NZ8/00852), financed from NCN under management of dr hab. Bożena Kolano, prof. UŚ

Duration of the scholarship:

48 months

Scholarship amount:

PLN 4 693,24 gross (before the mid-term evaluation) / PLN 5 546,55 gross (after mid-term evaluation)

Project description:

The research will focus on the evolution and organisation of ribosomal DNA (rDNA) sequences in selected Amaranthus species using molecular, cytogenetic, bioinformatic, and phylogenetic approaches. The analyses will aim to improve understanding of genome evolution and rDNA dynamics during polyploidization and diploidization processes, including sequence variation, chromosomal localization, and transcriptional activity of rDNA variants. The project will also investigate karyotype evolution and chromosome number variation in Amaranthus, with particular emphasis on chromosome fusion events and dysploidy, by integrating genome assembly data with comparative cytogenetic analyses. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and chromosome-specific oligonucleotide probes will be used to identify chromosomal rearrangements and to elucidate mechanisms underlying genome organization and evolution in Amaranthus.

Scope of Duties

• Plant material cultivation and preparation
• Chromosome number analyses and detection of inter- and intraspecific variation
• DNA isolation and cloning of rDNA sequences
• Preparation of chromosome spreads (including 3D polyacrylamide-based preparations)
• Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and immunostaining
• Epifluorescence and confocal microscopy analyses, including image processing
• Participation in bioinformatic analyses
• Design and application of oligonucleotide probes for FISH
• Participation in data analysis, manuscript preparation, and conference presentations

Requirements:

1. MSc diploma (or other documents confirming the Master’s degree) in Biology, Biotechnology, or related disciplines. If the candidate is completing their MSc in 2026, a declaration confirming the planned date of the Master’s thesis defence is required; in this case, the MSc diploma must be submitted by 15 September.
2. The candidate should have experience in molecular cytogenetics, molecular biology, or a related discipline. A basic practical skill set in standard molecular biology techniques is required, including DNA isolation, PCR, electrophoresis, and cloning.
3. Additional experience in molecular cytogenetic methods and bioinformatics will be highly advantageous. This includes techniques such as non-radioactive DNA probe labelling, fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH) with various probe types, epifluorescence microscopy, and digital image acquisition and analysis. Knowledge of bioinformatics analyses will be considered an asset.
4. A good command of English at a fluent level is required, enabling the candidate to present seminars and prepare scientific publications.
5. The candidate should be able to work independently as well as collaboratively within a research team.

Required documents:

1. Motivation letter with a description of scientific interests
2. CV
3. List of scientific achievements (e.g. publications, conference presentations, scholarships, etc.)
4. Copy of the MSc diploma or a relevant document (as described in the requirements)
5. Contact details of at least one referee who can provide a recommendation letter
6. Candidates should register in IRK system and select „Admission to the Doctoral School at the University od Silesia in Katowice – ADMISSION FOR PROJECTS” (https://irk.us.edu.pl/en-gb/) and choose the right project title.

Documents should be delivered till 25.07.2026 to an e-mail: bozena.kolano@us.edu.pl

In case of any questions, before the formal application please contact to the grant leader for the e-mail address given above.

Documents will be rated by the commission, led by the project leader. Admission will be carried out according to the NCN regulations. Admission can be carried out in English. Interview will be organized on 05.08.2026 at the University of Silensia in Katowice / on-line. The final decision will be sent to candidates via e-mail by end of August.