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PhD position (Molecular Biology): DNA Damage Processing during Genome Replication : Mainz, Germany

In the field of “DNA Damage Processing during Genome Replication” the research group of Prof. Helle Ulrich offers the following PhD project:

Real-time analysis of DNA damage bypass in a chromatin environment

Description:

The proposed project aims at understanding the regulation of DNA damage bypass in live cells. While we have a fairly good insight into the mechanism that activates the pathway by means of PCNA ubiquitylation, we know very little about the factors that influence the choice between error-free template switching and mutagenic translesion synthesis and modulate their respective activities. In order to be able to monitor the orchestration of damage bypass in real time, we have recently developed a genetic system to introduce replication-stalling lesions in a site-specific manner into the genome of budding yeast. This tool allows us to track the recruitment of relevant repair proteins to their site of action in their native, cellular environment. Using tools like chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP), next-generation sequencing and fluorescence microscopy, we are now able to examine the influence of factors such as chromatin structure, cell cycle and replication timing on damage bypass, and we can apply genetic manipulation of specific damage response pathways in order to determine the interdependencies and hierarchies of the proteins involved in lesion processing. In this manner, we will gain insight into how the choice between mutagenic and error-free pathways of replicative damage bypass is accomplished in response to different challenges, and how this influences efficiency and fidelity of lesion processing.

We offer
• 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

Duration of stipend/salary: 3 years, with the possibility of extension
Starting date: 1 August 2017 or later
Deadline for registration (exclusively online via web form): 24 March 2017

For further questions and contact information please check our website:
www.imb.de/PhD

 Please apply exclusively via our online form at:
 www.imb.de/students-postdocs/international-phd-programme/apply-to-ipp/

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:March 31, 2017

Job type:PhD Studentship

Salary:Unspecified

Qualifications:Postgraduate - Master's degree

Employment type:Temporary

Job hours:Full-time