Postdoc in The Membrane Connection of Coenzyme A

Postdoc in The Membrane Connection of Coenzyme A

Utrecht University - Faculty of Science

Utrecht, Netherlands

Job description

The maintenance of proper cellular levels of coenzyme A (CoA) through biosynthesis, uptake of precursors and degradation, is essential in all forms of life. Interference with CoA homeostasis leads to specific devastating CoA-linked diseases. Recent research in insect cell and yeast models has provided clues that CoA deficiency-induced changes in membrane lipid composition may facilitate uptake of CoA precursors ameliorating CoA deficiency.

In this position you will take on the exciting challenge of elucidating the mechanism of lipid composition-dependent membrane transport of CoA precursors. To do so, you will employ biochemical, molecular biological, and biophysical approaches and techniques. You will set up model systems in S. cerevisiae mimicking the affected human tissues. You will investigate the uptake of metabolic precursors of CoA in mammalian, insect and yeast (mutant) cells. By applying biophysical techniques you will examine the interaction of CoA precursors with membrane lipids, and measure membrane permeation of CoA precursors in protein-free model membrane systems. You will analyse how glycerolipid synthesis and cellular lipid composition are affected by CoA levels using state-of-the-art lipidomics approaches. You will genetically modify membrane lipid composition (e.g. Bao et al. EMBO J 2021) to test the effect on uptake of relevant CoA precursors. You will also have the opportunity to obtain teaching experience and improve your academic skills while supervising undergraduate students.

Qualifications

We are looking for an ambitious and creative molecular life scientist who is interested in working at the interface of biochemistry, biophysics and genetics. You enjoy being part of an interdisciplinary team of scientists, and meet multiple if not all of the following criteria:

• a PhD in biochemistry, molecular biology, biotechnology or related discipline;
• demonstrated extensive experience with (yeast) molecular biology and genetics;
• experience with or a strong interest in (yeast) membrane and cell biology;
• experience with biophysical approaches using model membranes is a plus;
• strong motivation, flexibility, and the ability to run multiple projects simultaneously;
• excellent communication skills in English, both oral and written.

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Netherlands      Academic      Biochemistry      Biology      Biotechnology and Genetics      Nutrition      Postdoc      Utrecht University - Faculty of Science