Postdoc - RNA Biology
Postdoc - RNA Biology
Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics
Freiburg, Germany
We are looking for a Postdoc (m/f/d) in RNA biology.
The Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics is world-class research institute based in Freiburg, Germany. We are looking for a postdoctoral scientist to work in the Department of Chromatin Regulation headed by Prof. Dr. Asifa Akhtar.
A major focus of the Akhtar lab is understanding long noncoding RNAs and RNA remodeling by the RNA helicase DHX9. Our most recent work in Drosophila revealed that phase separation between the unstructured CTD of MSL2 and the roX RNAs is responsible for establishment of a gel-like condensate that promotes local transcriptional activation (Valsecchi et al., 2021 Nature). In the future the lab will dissect the fascinating question of what properties of this phase-separated compartment are responsible for guiding transcriptional upregulation at genomic loci found inside it. In mammals our lab has identified DHX9 as a key enzyme in protecting cells against the harmful effects of retrotransposon-derived secondary RNA structures (Aktas et al., 2017 Nature). We also made the unexpected discovery that DHX9 governs a dedicated response to protect cells against UV-induced RNA damage through the assembly of subcellular organelles known as stress granules (Zhou et al., 2024 Cell). In the future we will investigate the physiological roles of DHX9 in resolving both Alu inverted repeats and UV-induced RNA damage in more detail.
Your tasks
We are looking for an independent and motivated post-doctoral scientist interested in exploring the lncRNAs roX1/rox2, RNA helicase MLE and/or the RNA helicase DHX9. For this we seek applicants with a strong background in experimental work in the relevant model organism(s) (Drosophila melanogaster and/or mouse models or human/mouse cell lines). The recruited scientist will apply a combination of methodologies, including NGS technologies, microscopy, 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, mammalian cell culture models and/or Drosophila melanogaster 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 graduate students are an asset
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