WR DTP project: Hormonal Determinants of Estrogen Receptor Binding and Response

The Estrogen Receptor (ER) plays a central role in breast development, and when it goes wrong, in disease. A key question in tissue development is what causes different cells to show a coordinated response to the molecular messages and how is this regulation maintained.

Estrogen is lipid-soluble and diffuses across cell membranes. As a result, the ER is a nuclear receptor. On activation, the ER directly binds to genomic DNA at thousands of locations and turns-on nearby genes.

This research aims to elucidate the role of other hormones in defining the underlying chromatin landscape, which restricts where ER can bind to DNA, thereby defining which genes respond to estrogen.

To achieve our goal, we will combine single-cell RNA sequencing with a modified ER. Our modified ER will leave markers on nearby DNA enabling us to monitor how other hormones define where ER can bind. While single-cell sequencing enables us to monitor the response to estrogen and how it varies between individual cells.

By understanding this fundamental biology of breast tissue development, the results of this research will inform future treatments for disease and support the development of new strategies for regenerative medicine.

The ideal candidate should have a background in molecular, cell or developmental biology.

The White Rose DTP in Mechanistic Biology is committed to recruiting extraordinary future scientists regardless of age, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation or career pathway to date. We understand that commitment and excellence can be shown in many ways and have built our recruitment process to reflect this. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, particularly those underrepresented in science, who have curiosity, creativity and a drive to learn new skills.