IGF-1 signaling modified by cellular kinase networks

The Insulin-like Growth Factor-I system has a profound effect on cell fate, longevity, and cancer progression even in the presence of lifestyle, genetic and environmental risk factors for these conditions. High levels of circulating IGFs predict susceptibility to certain cancers, and individuals with low IGF levels are protected from cancer. Moreover, somatic mutations in the IGF-1 Receptor that are associated with reduced activity are found in human centenarians and long-lived small mammals. IGF-1 signaling can be modified by diet, exercise and other cues, and, low-level basal signaling may promote cell renewal and protection, while acute or high-level signaling may amplify oncogenic signals and promote tissue damage. Thus, low IGF activity protects from diseases of ageing while high IGF activity exacerbates these. However, the molecular basis for regulation of the level or tone of IGF signaling is not understood. Furthermore, despite much compelling evidence for the benefits of modulating IGF signaling for health benefits, this has proven difficult to achieve.

The aim of this PhD project is to advance an ongoing research programme on how IGF-1 signaling is controlled by regulatory regions in the IGF-1 Receptor that can be phosphorylated by cellular kinases (1,2). The implications of this for IGF-1 actions in normal cells, cancer, and ageing will be explored using a range of biochemical and molecular approaches, including CRISPR-based cell and mouse models, protein structure-function analyses, cell function and imaging technologies.

We are seeking highly motivated candidates with a minimum 2.1H or equivalent, BSc or MSc in Biochemistry, Molecular Cell Biology or related fields, who wish to pursue careers in research in academia or Industry. The successful applicant will have the opportunity to work with a team of international researchers in Cork and with collaborating laboratories in the USA, Europe and Japan.

The School of Biochemistry and Cell Biology provides a supportive environment for PhD training. It has hosted a structured PhD programme in Cancer Biology over the last 10 years and offers graduate courses in the areas of molecular cell biology/genetics/disease that, together with a suite of graduate modules across the University, are available to fulfill the requirements of the structured PhD degree.

For information and recent publications see: http://www.ucc.ie/en/biochemistry/
Student stipend will be €18,500 per annum plus fees
PhD start date: October 1st, 2018.
Closing Date for applications: June 15th 2018
To apply please send a CV, personal statement and names of 3 references to:
Prof. Rosemary O’Connor

Email: [Email Address Removed]. Phone 353 21 4901312