Cell biological mechanisms of stem cell self-renewal

During homeostasis in adult tissues, stem cells need to divide to replenish differentiating cells, and maintain themselves through self-renewal. How they achieve the right balance of differentiation and self-renewal is still poorly understood. One important aspect of this balance is that stem cell daughters compete with each other for limited space in their niche, or supportive micro-environment. This means that some stem cells can give rise to daughters (“clones”) that self-renew in the niche at the expense of their neighbours.
We seek to understand how differences among stem cells arise, such that one stem cell competes better than its neighbours for space in the niche. This project will seek to characterise how signals that control the ability of stem cells to self-renew or to differentiate are translated into cell biological mechanisms that make a single cell more or less likely than its neighbours to remain in the niche.
We will make extensive use of the advantages of Drosophila, particularly genetic tools that enable the generation of labelled single cell clones. In addition, this project will involve multi-photon live imaging of adult tissue to track stem cell fates in vivo.
More information can be found at: www.amoyellab.com

Candidates should have a 2:1 (or equivalent) degree or better in a suitable biomedical science-related area, and a strong interest in developmental and stem cell biology. Candidates with experience of biomedical laboratory work are particularly encouraged to apply.

How to apply
To apply, please send a CV, cover letter and statement of research interests to Marc Amoyel, [Email Address Removed], who can also be contacted for further information.
There is no formal closing date for applications, a student will be appointed as soon as a suitable candidate is identified.

Starting date : 1 October 2018 but flexible