The Archaea constitute the third domain of life on Earth, comprise an estimated 20% of the planet’s biomass and make a major impact on both biosphere and atmosphere. Despite this however, they remain relatively understudied. This project is centred on understanding how archaeal cells maintain the integrity of their genetic information, with particular emphasis on exploring questions of protein structure, function and regulation within the archaeal chromosomal DNA replication machinery. Recent studies indicate that eukaryotic life emerged from an archaeal ancestor: therefore, in addition to showing how archaeal cells replicate their chromosomes, the work has the potential to provide insights into the evolution of replication protein function during eukaryogenesis (the evolution of eukaryotes). The student will utilise the halophilic (salt-loving) archaeal organisms Haloferax volcanii and Haloarcula hispanica as model systems to explore DNA replication biology in the archaea. Previously, the group has genetically and/or biochemically characterised a number of conserved replication factors in H. volcanii, such as the MCM helicase (1), multiple single-stranded DNA binding proteins (2) and the sliding clamp PCNA (3). This project will aim to expand this work to gain a greater understanding of the roles played by conserved and non-conserved protein factors in archaeal chromosome replication using a variety of phylogenetic, cell biological, molecular genetic, biochemical and structural biology approaches, thereby gaining novel insights into the molecular machinery of chromosome replication in archaea and how this may have evolved. Should the need arise, the student will be able to extend their work into eukaryotes, using the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe as a model system to test predictions arising from the work in archaea. The student will acquire skills in molecular microbiology, biochemistry, structural biology and bioinformatics.
Informal enquiries can be directed to Dr Stuart MacNeill ([Email Address Removed]). See https://synergy.st-andrews.ac.uk/macneill/ for further details.
Eligibility requirements: A good BSc (Hons) degree (2:1 or above) or equivalent in molecular biology, molecular genetics, microbiology, biochemistry or a related subject is essential. A research Masters degree in an area of biology related to the project is desirable.
How To Apply
Please make a formal application to the School of Biology through our Online Application Portal.
We require the following documents; CV, personal statement, 2 references, academic qualifications, English language qualification (if applicable).
Keywords: DNA replication, genome stability, archaea, microbiology, molecular biology, genetics