Postdoc in RNA Biology
Postdoc in RNA Biology
Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics
Freiburg, Germany
We are looking for a postdoctoral scientist to work in the Department of Chromatin Regulation (Head: Prof. Dr. Asifa Akhtar).
Understanding the biological roles of noncoding RNAs and RNA-binding proteins is a major focus of the Akhtar lab. Our lab has identified that the RNA helicase DHX9 plays a critical role in protecting mammalian cells against the deleterious effects of secondary RNA structures. We revealed that DHX9 remodels RNA arising from the abundant Alu class of retrotransposable element in humans, thereby preventing aberrant RNA splicing (Aktas et al., 2017 Nature). In our most recent study we made the unexpected discovery that DHX9 also governs a dedicated protective response against RNA damage. We showed for the first time that the cell sequesters UV-damaged cytoplasmic RNA into phase-separated subcellular organelles known as stress granules, where remodeling of double-stranded damaged RNA by DHX9 is essential for cell viability (Zhou et al., 2024 Cell).
In the future we will investigate DHX9’s function in resolving Alu inverted repeats and UV-induced RNA damage in further molecular detail, as well as interrogate the physiological role(s) of DHX9 in different cell types.
Your tasks
We are looking for an independent and motivated post-doctoral scientist interested in exploring diverse aspects of RNA biology in mammalian cells. For this we seek applicants with a strong background in experimental work in mouse models and/or in human or mouse 2D or 3D cell culture models. The recruited scientist will apply a combination of methodologies, including NGS techniques, super-resolution microscopy, biochemical assays, proteomics, metabolomics or other techniques, as appropriate.
Your qualifications
- Applicants should have an academic degree in life science plus a PhD in molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics, bioinformatics and/or high-resolution imaging
- Prior experience working with mouse models and/or with mouse or human cell culture models is required
- A minimum of two years of experience in methods to study RNA biology is a prerequisite
- Candidates should have at least one first-author publication
- The ability to work in a team, communication skills and experience in the supervision of students will be considered assets
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