Pathophysiology of intensive care acquired muscle weakness - the role of mitochondrial dysfunction

Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University

Our research group is currently seeking a highly motivated Ph.D. student with a strong interest in cell biology and biochemistry. This position will be based at the Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in the centre of Prague.

The focus of our research group is to study altered mitochondrial biology of human tissues (mainly skeletal muscle) in critically ill patients influenced either by severe illness itself (sepsis, ICU-acquired muscle weakness) or e. g. drug administration. We use tools and methods to study both mitochondrial bioenergetics and morphology (high resolution respirometry, extracellular flux analysis, techniques based on confocal microscopy etc.). Our group also works on joint scientific projects with researchers from universities in the UK, Norway and France. We currently plan to open a PhD position which will be focused on mitochondrial dysfunction in intensive care unit-acquired muscle weakness, that is a common complication in ICU. We seek to identify if critical illness induces alteration of mitochondrial function and structure in satellite cells that could later impair skeletal muscle recovery. In this project, PhD student will study mitochondrial metabolism and dynamics of satellite cells isolated from human skeletal muscle of critically ill patients and investigate whether some external factors (e.g. nutritional factors) could attenuate mitochondrial dysfunction of these cells.

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to join a young and dynamic group conducting high-level research in mitochondrial biology. We offer you a clear mentoring system in a scientific university environment with access to many specialized techniques (confocal laser scanning microscopy, super-resolution microscopy, extracellular flux analyzers, etc.). You will have also an opportunity to participate in both training courses at our university and short-term internships at one of our collaborating universities abroad. A workplace is in the city center that is easily accessible by public transport. The program language is English (or Czech). Ph.D. studies usually last 3-4 years.

Entry Requirements

The ideal candidate should have a background in either natural sciences or medicine and a completed scientific university degree (master or diploma) in the field of che­mistry, bio­chemistry, biophysics, molecular biology, medicine or a related disci­pline.

• Knowledge of basic laboratory skills (pipetting, etc.) is essential.
• Prior experience in working with cell cultures is advantageous.
• Good command of written and spoken English
• Ability to work independently as well as in team
• Strong sense of responsibility
• Enthusiasm, reliability, and flexibility

How to Apply

Application Website: www.lf3.cuni.cz/en

You can apply until 15^th April 2024. Send your CV, Copy of Master’s degree and a Letter of Motivation to our contact addresses: adela.krajcova@lf3.cuni.cz or fduska@yahoo.com. Questions about the position should be also directed to us via these emails.