The funded PhD position is available at the Central European Institute of Technology – Masaryk University (CEITEC MU) in Brno, Czech Republic. PhD position is available in ongoing project in the group of RNA and Immunity run by Mary O’Connell and Liam Keegan.
RNA and Immunity Project: The ADAR enzymes deaminate adenosine bases in dsRNA in pre-mRNAs to inosine, which can be read as guanosine by the translational machinery, recoding individual codons in some ADAR-edited transcripts. In vertebrates, one of the most critical recoding events maintains the calcium impermeability of GluA2 subunit-containing AMPA receptors and this is catalyzed by Adar2. Adenosine to inosine conversion in endogenous dsRNA also helps the cell distinguish self from foreign/viral/pathogenic dsRNA. This is essential as without it, unedited endogenous dsRNA binds to cellular dsRNA sensors and activates innate immune responses (doi: 10.1016/j.celrep.2014.10.041) and Adar1 required for this. The PhD student will investigate these roles of Adar1 and Adar2 further using mouse mutants and cell cultures which are available within the group.
We are looking for applicants who are motivated and creative. Experience in molecular biology techniques is desired. The applicant must have good English language skills – both spoken and written. The PhD candidate must have a Masters degree. For additional information on our research please go to https://www.ceitec.eu/era-chair-rna-and-immunity-mary-oconnell/rg112.
Applications should include a CV, a scanned copy of the Masters or an official letter certifying its completion, brief motivation letter, and contacts for at least two references should be sent via e-mail: [Email Address Removed].
More information about CEITEC PhD School are available at http://ls-phd.ceitec.cz/.
Closing date: 15th October