H3.3 and its chaperones in the nervous system

The German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) investigates the causes of diseases of the nervous system and develops strategies for prevention, treatment and care. It is an institution within the Helmholtz Association of German Research Centers with nine sites across Germany (Berlin, Bonn, Dresden, Göttingen, Magdeburg, Munich, Rostock/Greifswald, Tübingen and Witten). The DZNE cooperates closely with universities, their clinics and other research facilities.

The DZNE in Bonn offers a position as

PhD student (f/m)
Code 1514/2017/11

within Dr. Daniele Bano and Prof. Paolo Salomoni research groups.

Description: The groups of Dr. Daniele Bano and Prof. Paolo Salomoni study the interplay between epigenetic plasticity, mitochondrial function and metabolism in aging and brain pathophysiology. Dr. Bano’s group has previously elucidated novel mitochondria-dependent molecular cascades that contribute to cell death and neuronal dysfunction (Sendoel A. et al, 2014; Gioran A. et al, 2014; Meyer K. et al, 2015). Moreover, we have recently demonstrated the relevance of replication-independent histone H3.3 variant in controlling the epigenetic landscape that promotes pro-survival signaling pathways (Piazzesi A. et al, 2016) and in regulation of activity-dependent transcription in neurons (Michod D. et al, 2012). Prof. Salomoni’s group has recently shown that a brain-cancer associated mutation in the same histone variant disrupts brain development and promotes high-grade glioma in mice (Pathania M. et al, in press). We are interested in identifying molecular mechanisms that regulate nucleosome plasticity and may contribute to neurodegenerative processes during aging. In this regard, we offer the following project:

H3.3 and its chaperones in the nervous system. This work will build on our previous studies on H3.3 in nematode lifespan regulation, and will specifically explore how H3.3 loading is regulated downstream to pro-longevity signaling pathways and what is its contribution to chromatin and transcriptional plasticity using mouse as a model system.

Your profile: We are looking for a highly motivated and science-driven person with a recent M.sc. degree or equivalent qualification; a background in neuroscience or related areas of biology (e.g., neurobiology, molecular biology, (epi-)genetics or behavioral neuroscience); solid hands-on experience in laboratory animal experimentation (e.g., mouse colony management, handling, perfusion and in-vivo experiments (FELASA B level)) or molecular biology (e.g., protein/RNA extraction, western blotting, PCR); good communication skills and the ability for teamwork. Additional expertise in the following areas would be a plus: histology: tissue preparation, staining (histochemistry, immunofluorescence); confocal and STED microscopy and imaging analysis; in-vitro cell culture models (especially iPSC).

We offer:
• An interesting and challenging research structure that works on the future topics of health research
• An international environment characterized by a strong focus on science and research
• A high potential for the individual development of our employees
• Targeted personnel development
• The position is available starting from March 1st, 2018 probably until October 2020
• Employment, payment and social benefits are consistent with those at other research institutes

You will obtain special skills and knowledge for your scientific qualification during your activities at DZNE. The DZNE is an equal opportunity employer. It especially welcomes and encourages disabled individuals to apply.

Interested candidates should send their application including a CV and references via the following link:

https://jobs.dzne.de/en/jobs/97/form