Postdoctoral Researcher – Polyploid complexes in Brassicaceae family

Postdoctoral position is available for the study of polyploid complexes in the family Brassicaceae. Study will comprise ploidy level evaluation, analysis of the origin of polyploids using molecular markers as well as evaluation of morphological differentiation among genetically defined groups.

Research team focuses on the systematics and phylogeny of the genera of the families Brassicaceae, Asteraceae and Zingiberaceae. Wide spectrum of methodical approaches (molecular systematics, multivariate morphometrics, karyology, biogeography, phylogeography, nomenclature) enables complex view on the evolutionary history and relationships of the studied taxa. Well-equipped DNA and flow cytometric laboratories are available.

Potential aims - thorough comparative study of the evolutionary history of three intricate polyploid complexes from three different tribes of Brassicaceae in order to get a more general insight into patterns and processes of polyploid evolution in natural conditions. Particular questions addressed will include: What is the rate of auto- vs. allopolyploidy in three studied polyploid complexes? Does the evolution repeat itself? Are there any independent polyploid lineages originating from the same parental combinations? What are the main differences in evolutionary patterns between related diploid and diploid/tetraploid species complexes evolving in the same area and environmental context?

Position is already occupied