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PhD position (molecular biology): Pathogenic and Regulatory T cell development : Mainz, Germany

In the field of “Pathogenic and Regulatory T cell development” the research group of Professor Ari Waisman offers the following PhD project:

The role of the IkappaB molecule Bcl-3 in T cell development and autoimmunity

Description:

We are currently searching for a highly motivated PhD student with strong interest in molecular biology and immunology, to investigate the role of members of the NF-kappaB family of transcription factors in the development of pathogenic and regulatory T cells. We have recently identified Bcl-3, an atypical inhibitor of NF-kappaB signaling, to be involved in the differentiation of naïve T cells into regulatory T cells (Treg) and IL-17-producing T helper cells (Th17), respectively. We found that Bcl-3 inhibits the binding of two NF-kappaB molecules, p50 and p65, to their target genes. As a consequence, Treg and Th17 cells do not develop properly, which leads to the spontaneous development of gut inflammation (colitis). In the frame of the PhD project we seek to better understand the role of Bcl-3/p50 and Bcl-3/p65 interactions for the development of T cells. We will use the CRISPR/CAS9 technology to introduce specific point mutations in either one of these NF-kappaB member proteins to investigate how inhibition of their binding to each other, while retaining their other activities, impacts on T cell development and subsequently on autoimmunity.

We offer in the IPP

• The possibility to work on a cutting-edge project using state-of-the-art technology in a highly motivated research team
• A stimulating, diverse and international research environment
• Advanced training opportunities
• A fully funded PhD position

Required qualifications
 
• Master or Diploma
• Motivation to solve complex biological problems
• Excellent communication skills

Starting date: 1 March 2017 or later
Deadline for registration:  10 November 2016
Deadline for application (exclusively online via web form): 17 November 2016

Don't forget to mention Naturejobs when applying.

Job details

Employer:Institut of Molecular Biology (IMB)

Website:https://www.imb-mainz.de/

Location:Institut für Molekulare Biologie gGmbH, Ackermannweg 4, Mainz, Germany

Expires:November 17, 2016

Job type:PhD Studentship

Salary:Unspecified

Qualifications:Postgraduate - Master's degree

Employment type:Temporary

Job hours:Full-time