Proteomics in Macrophage and Phagosome Biology

Macrophages are immune cells that exist in many different tissues and perform a wide range of biological functions. They are extremely plastic in their protein expression pattern and can become activated by a range of cytokines and pathogen associated molecules such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS). One of the main functions of macrophages is phagocytosis, which is the active uptake of large particles (>0.5 μm) by cells. Phagocytosis is an important cellular mechanism for almost all eukaryotes, and in mammals, it is a key part of the innate immune response against invading microorganisms. Moreover, macrophages phagocytose apoptotic cells and cell debris to recycle cellular building blocks during homeostasis and development. Phagocytosis is induced through the binding of particles to cell surface receptors and after internalisation, newly formed phagosomes engage in a maturation process that involves fusion with endosomes, lysosomes and other organelles, leading to the formation of phagolysosomes in which the foreign matter is degraded. Peptide antigens from the particle are also presented via MHC class I and II molecules, bridging innate and adaptive immunity.

We are looking for a talented PhD student for an exciting project in the field of macrophage biology and proteomics. You will use a wide range of techniques including mass spectrometry-based proteomics as well as biochemical, cell biological and immunological methods to analyse how specific signalling molecules affect phagosome biogenesis. This will give us new insights about this important mechanism in immunity and infectious diseases