PhD position : Goettingen, Germany

Project description: 
Genetics of non-smoker chronic obstructive pulmonary disorders (COPD):
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disorders, short COPD is the 4th leading cause of death worldwide and very often a pre-stage for lung carcinogenesis as it promotes chronic inflammation, emphysema, dysplasia, adenomas and adenocarcinomas. COPD is commonly caused by tobacco smoke; however, non-smoker COPDs are also observed. One genetic factor leading to COPD and emphysema in human in the 30s-40s is α1-antitrypsin deficiency, but it does not account for all observed non-smoker COPDs. 
MicroRNAs are small non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression posttranscriptionally. MicroRNA-449 (miR-449) belongs to the miR-34/449 family and has been associated with multiciliated differentiation. This gene is specifically expressed in the respiratory epithelium of the airways together with its host gene cdc20b. 
During this PhD thesis, the molecular mechanisms underlying non-smoker COPD should be explored. We already found that miR-449 depletion alone causes COPD in a mouse model. We want now to solidify these findings by analyzing mice depleted of the other miR-34/449 family members miR-34a and miR-34bc as well as of the miR-449 host gene cdc20b and other known regulators of this microRNA family.

Previous publications:
Lizé et al., Cell Cycle, 2011; 1;10(17).; 
Lizé et al., Cell Cycle, 2010; 9(22):4579-83.; 
Lizé et al., Cell Death & Differentiation, 2010; 17(3):452-8.

Requirements for the project:
Applicants should hold a MSc, Diploma or equivalent degree in biology, biochemistry, biomedicine, pharmacology, veterinary medicine or related disciplines with a strong background in molecular and cell biology. Laboratory experience and a sound knowledge of biochemical and molecular biological techniques is a prerequisite. Experience with cell culture and with preparation and evaluation of histological sections will be beneficial. The willingness to work with animals and perform animal experiments is required. A good command of spoken and written English is necessary. We are looking for a highly motivated Ph. D. student with a true interest in the topics. Please specify your mastered methods in your CV.

For further information, please contact or send your application by e-mail to us:
Dr. Muriel Lizé (mlize@uni-goettingen.de) +49 551 39 10373

Please include a CV, certificates, a short summary of your research interests and the names and contact details of at least two references in your application. Please do not send originals. Application by e-mail (e. g. pdf) is preferred.