Funded Ph.D. position in computational cell biophysics

We are seeking a motivated candidate to join our biophysics group and investigate the physical properties of growing cells using computational modeling and 3D image analysis. A background in Physics, Computer Science, Mathematics or Biophysics is required. Experience with programming (C++, python, matlab) and/or FEM modeling are strong assets.

The PhD student will use mechanical modelling to compute physical forces in plant cells [1, 2, 3] and 3D image analysis to quantify growth [4]. She/He will interact on a regular basis with molecular biologists from the Research Institute in Plant Biology (IRBV) at University of Montreal, in particular the Kierzkowski lab. The project will be carried in close collaboration with Frederick Gosselin’s lab at the Department of Mechanical Engineering, Polytechnique Montréal. 

Please send your candidature to al.routier@umontreal.ca complete with: a motivation letter and research interests (1 page max), CV, grade records and email addresses of 2 referees before June 1^st 2019.

More information about our research:   https://routierlab.com/

Literature:

[1] “Cellular basis of growth in plants: geometry matters.” Kierzkowski & Routier-Kierzkowska, Current Opinion in Plant Biology 47, 56-63 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pbi.2018.09.008

[2] “Why plants make puzzle cells, and how their shape emerges.” Sapala  et al., eLife 27:e32794 (2018) https://doi.org/10.7554/eLife.32794

[3] “Morphomechanical Innovation Drives Explosive Seed Dispersal” Hofhuis et al., Cell 166, 222-233 (2016). http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.cell.2016.05.002.

[4] “MorphoGraphX: A platform for quantifying morphogenesis in 4D” Barbier de Reuille, Routier-Kierzkowska  et al., eLife 4, e05864 (2015). http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.05864.