The Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the Biocenter of the University of Würzburg brings together molecular cell biologists, biochemists and bioinformaticians to understand the principles of life across scales, with particular focus on cancer research and the mechanisms of tumor formation. The research group ‘Non-coding RNA in Health & Disease’ of Kaspar Burger investigates the crossroads of RNA metabolism, DNA damage response (DDR) and genome stability, and is seeking for a
PhD Student in Molecular Biology (m/f/d)
to perform cutting-edge preclinical research on mechanistic principles of genome stability in mammals.
Project
Long non-coding RNA and RNA-binding proteins are overexpressed in many tumors and emerge as regulators of genome stability. We could recently unravel novel mechanisms that link components of nuclear paraspeckles (NEAT1, NONO) to DDR and genome stability in mammalian cells (Mamontova et al. 2024 Genes Dev; Trifault et al. 2024 NAR; Mamontova et al. 2024 Life Sci Alliance; Trifault et al. 2022 Front Mol Biosci). Our current work points toward epitranscriptomic regulation of DDR. We aim to (i) understand how with RNA modifications like N6-methyladenosine (m6A) alter the structure and function of DDR-promoting RNA transcripts and (ii) identify novel regulators of RNA-dependent DDR by combining state-of-the-art biochemical and cell biological assays with functional genomics.
Your match
- Excellent M.Sc. degree or equivalent qualification in Biology, Biochemistry, or a related field.
- Strong interest in RNA biology and genome maintenance.
- Wet-lab experience with tissue culture and standard molecular biology techniques.
- Experience in next-generation sequencing (NGS) or CRISPR screens are advantageous.
- The working language is English, knowledge of the German language is not required.
Our offer
The research group is located at the Biocenter of the University of Würzburg, a well-renowned, interdisciplinary research facility that offers a supportive and stimulating environment. For further information visit:
https://www.biozentrum.uni-wuerzburg.de/en/home/ - Full-time appointment, competitive salary (TV-L E13, 65%), fixed-term with possible extension.
- 3-year PhD program, hands-on supervision, intellectual support.
- Modern lab space and access to core facilities and cutting-edge technology.
- Enrolment in the Graduate School of Life Sciences with broad training in methods and skills.
- Close collaborations with leading experts in RNA biology, cancer research and molecular biology in Würzburg and abroad.
- Würzburg is a thriving university town with numerous cultural events, local recreation areas and travel links.
We welcome applications from suitably qualified people regardless of ethnicity, gender or disability. The University aims to increase the proportion of female employees, therefore applications from qualified women are particularly welcome. Preference will be given to people with disabilities in the case of otherwise equal aptitude.
Applications must contain a CV, an one-page letter of motivation, relevant degree certificates and academic transcripts as well as contact details of two references. Prior publications or international experience are welcome, but no prerequisite.
Please send the documents as a single PDF file via email to:
Dr. Kaspar Burger (email; phone: ++49-931-31-48975)
or Monika Reichert (email)
Application deadline: 24.11.2024 - Interviews will be held in December 2024.