Laboratory of RNA Biology IBB PAS seeks a highly motivated PhD Student candidate who would like to join a mitochondrial research group working under the supervision of Dr Roman Szczesny.
Mitochondria are vital organelles present in almost all eukaryotic cells. Due to the organization of the human mitochondrial DNA, the regulation of expression of individual genes at the transcription level is limited. Although transcription of the majority of protein-coding mitochondrial genes occurs with the same frequency, the steady-state levels of mature transcripts are different. Therefore, posttranscriptional processes seem to be of great importance in tuning mitochondrial mRNAs (mt-mRNA) levels. We and others have revealed the only known to date RNA degradation pathway in human mitochondria, which relies on degradosome – a complex composed of the RNA helicase SUV3 and polynucleotide phosphorylase (PNPase) (Borowski et al. NAR, 2013). The degradosome pathway is principally responsible for the decay of mitochondrial antisense RNA (Pietras et al., Nat Commun, 2018, Dhir et al., Nature, 2018). The mechanism of the human mitochondrial sense transcripts degradation is far from being understood.
The main goal of the proposed research is to identify regulators of the levels of human mitochondrial mRNAs, particularly nuclear-encoded proteins involved in the decay of mt-mRNA species. We will also examine the potential role of posttranscriptional processing and translation in the regulation of mt-mRNA levels. To achieve the above goals, we will employ a high-throughput siRNA-based screening of the human genome that enables silencing of the expression of 6,395 selected nuclear genes. Human cells will be transfected with the siRNA library and then, using a fluorescent microscopy-based approach, examined for mt-mRNA levels and degradation. The selected protein candidates will be characterized in the follow-up studies using various molecular, biochemical and transcriptomic methods.
During the programme, you will get extensive training in state-of-the-art methods which involve (i) fluorescence microscopy (including high-throughput), (ii) automated, high-throughput sample handling, (iii) NGS-based transcriptome analysis, (iv) proteomics, (v) various cellular and molecular biology approaches. Not familiar with these methods? Don't worry, we will be happy to support and teach you.
In addition to the regular training, you will have a unique possibility to participate in dedicated workshops and courses for Doctoral Candidates from European MITGEST Consortium (https://www.mitgest.eu/training/) that will be held in Italy, Netherlands, Poland and Spain. This will be an excellent opportunity to develop your skills and interact with scientists from eight universities, three research institutions, one university hospital and six innovative companies covering nine European countries and Israel.
Deadlines:
The application deadline is 06-06-2023. Selected candidates will be interviewed between 12-06-2023 and 23-06-2023. Don't wait; apply now. For details on the application procedure and scholarship, see FULL OFFER
Visit our web to learn more about us: https://ibb.edu.pl/en/laboratory/roman-szczesny/
What we offer:
- Interesting and important research project.
- A thorough scientific education in the frame of a doctoral training program, including MITGEST training activities (https://www.mitgest.eu/training/).
- The possibility to participate in specific international courses, workshops and conferences.
- A supportive and inspiring work environment.
- Support from IBB Welcome Center in moving to a new place (https://welcome.ibb.edu.pl/)
Profile of a candidate/requirements:
- Master's degree (or equivalent) in biology, biochemistry, genetics or other related life science discipline before 1st October 2023 (you don't need to have the degree when applying).
- Passion for science, love of experimental research, and creativity.
- Ability to analyse data and draw conclusions.
- Independent thinking, structured work organisation, and a good team spirit are expected.
- Any experience in imaging, RNA biology, in vitro cell culture, next-generation sequencing, and involvement in studies on mitochondrial biology will be an advantage, but is not mandatory.
Full description of the offer and the recruitment procedure: FULL OFFER
Contact:
Roman Szczesny, [Email Address Removed], add "PhD position" to the message's subject.
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