Project Description
The biotechnology important green microalga Haematococcus pluvialis is the best natural source for the high-value pigment astaxanthin. This red ketocarotenoid (3,3-dihydroxy-β,β-carotene-4,4-dione), is used not only for the pigmentation of crustaceans and salmonids in aquaculture, but also used in different applications in pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and cosmetic industries, due to its higher antioxidant activity. The chytrid fungus Paraphysoderma sedebokerense, was first discovered as a highly specific parasite of H. pluvilais, where it infects and collapses algae cultures, but very recently it was reported to infect also other green algae.
The aim of this project is to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying host – parasite interaction between P. sedebokerense and H. pluvialis but will also serves as a model for host-parasite interactions involving other fungi from the same class, causing among other diseases resulting in collapse of amphibian and algae populations in nature.
The project requires proven skills and experience in cell and molecular biology and microbiology; knowledge in genetic engineering, bioinformatics, transcriptomics or proteomics is an asset for this ambitious bi-national project.
Application procedure:
Please send your complete application documents: letter of application, CV, list of 3 referees ASAP to initiate evaluation and administrative procedures.
Expected starting date: February 2019
Please send enquiries and CV to:
Dr. Aliza Zarka (
[email protected] and Prof. Sammy Boussiba (
[email protected] ).
