Telomeres are protective structures that cap the ends of linear chromosomes. At their core, telomeres are formed from hundreds to thousands of repeats of a consensus telomeric DNA sequence. The shortening of these repeats act as a molecular clock that defines cellular aging and limits proliferation. However, an often-overlooked fact is that telomeres end in single-stranded DNA overhangs that are bound by dedicated DNA-binding proteins. These overhangs play important end-protection functions and help to differentiate true telomeres (at the ends of chromosomes) from internal telomeric repeat sequences.
The nematode worm, C. elegans, is unique in that it has both telomeric C-overhangs and G-overhangs. How these two overhangs can co-exist is unclear. However, they are known to both contribute to genome stability and repression of the alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT) pathway - which is activated in 15% of human cancers.
This project will combine genetics with protein purification and in vitro reconstitution of protein-bound telomeric overhangs to understand the behaviour of telomeric ssDNA-binding proteins. It will also use a novel sequencing assay to accurately quantify the precise length of telomeric C-overhangs and G-overhangs in vivo. As such, prospective students will be trained in a wide-range of techniques including C. elegans maintenance, protein purification and expression and Nanopore DNA sequencing.
In addition to this, the University of St Andrews GRADskills programme is available to all graduate students and the School of Biology organises a number of events such as postgraduate conferences that allow students to network, present their work and get critical feedback. BioNet, a postgraduate student society provides a welcoming community.
The University of St Andrews School of Biology was awarded the Athena SWAN Gold award in 2021 for its sustained progression, achievement and beacon activity in advancing equality and representation. The School particularly welcomes applications from those suitably qualified from all genders, all races, ethnicities and nationalities, LGBT+, all or no religion, all social class backgrounds, and all family structures. The School values equality and diversity across its workforce and offers a family friendly and supportive environment in which flexible working is encouraged; we strive to hold important meetings/seminars within core hours of 09.15 to 14.45. In addition, a broad variety of measures are currently being introduced to ensure effective career progression for everyone and to eradicate the historical lack of diversity at higher professional levels.
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 - Telomeres, protein purification, DNA sequencing, NGS
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