PhD Research Project

Exploring the Molecular Interface between Muscular Dystrophies and Tumorigenesis

Neuromuscular Research Department

Centre of Anatomy & Cell Biology

Medical University of Vienna

Project: Muscular dystrophies (MDs) are inherited disorders leading to muscle weakness and wasting, often causing premature death. Several genes have been linked to MDs, but the molecular disease mechanisms and pathways are still poorly understood, which hinders the development of efficient therapies.

We have recently found that mutations in several MD genes lead to the spontaneous formation of muscle-derived malignant tumours (sarcomas) in MD model mice and therefore proposed that MD genes might act as tumour suppressors whose loss causes genetic instability (Schmidt WM et al., PLoS Genet. 7:e1002042, 2011).

This project aims at investigating the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying genomic instability and the propensity for malignant transformation in MD-muscle by applying cell culture- and tissue-based assays as well as molecular-genetic techniques.

Opportunities: The successful applicant will join a highly experienced team of experts in neuromuscular research and will have the opportunity to gain skills in a wide spectrum of techniques and to collaborate with other research teams.

Requirements: Completed study of an M.D. curriculum or a Master study in molecular life sciences, experience in molecular biological research, organizational skills and ability to work in a team.

Project start: Immediately (December 2012)

Duration and funding: Initially 3-year contract, salary according to "The Austrian Science Fund" (FWF) guidelines.

PhD Study: The successful applicant will enter the PhD program at the Medical University Vienna

http://www.meduniwien.ac.at/studienabteilung/content/studium-lehre/studienangebot/n094/

How to apply: Send your full CV and a covering letter outlining your research experience and interests, as well as contact details of at least 2 referees to nmrd@meduniwien.ac.at

Dr. Wolfgang Schmidt

nmrd@meduniwien.ac.at

Neuromuscular Research Department, Centre of Anatomy & Cell Biology, Medical University of Vienna

Vienna, AUSTRIA

Ansprechpartner: Dr. Wolfgang Schmidt, nmrd@meduniwien.ac.at