Structural studies on molecular interactions of the Disrupted-in- schizphrenia (DISC1) protein

Structural studies on molecular interactions of the Disrupted-in- schizphrenia (DISC1) protein
Job Offer Details
Job Description

The molecular causes of schizophrenia are still unknown. Recently, based on several genetic studies, the disrupted-in-schizophrenia 1 (DISC1) protein has come into focus for investigating molecular mechanisms of schizophrenia and other mental diseases. Here, structural and quantitative investigations of DISC1 with its interacting centrosomal molecules NDEL1, NDE1, PDE4B and LIS1 are proposed. All proteins, or soluble representative fragments thereof, as well as mutant / polymorphic counterparts will be expressed in Escherichia coli. Structural studies will be attempted by NMR and crystallography for single and complexed proteins and complemented by binding studies with surface plasmon resonance. These investigations will yield insight into the stochiometry and regulation of the interactions in the DISC1/NDEL1/NDE1/LIS1/PDE4B complex, and, through structural determination of binding interfaces, open novel pharmacological targets for these diseases.
The ideal candidate will have a background in protein biochemistry and/or biophysical characterization of proteins. Basic knowledge and/or experience in crystallization and X-ray spectroscopy would be an advantage. A strong interest in structural biology is a prerequisite. We are looking for an enthusiastic and highly motivated individual with fluency in written and spoken English, an open mind for new approaches and a lot of team spirit. Workplace will be the University hospital Duesseldorf.

Full Doctorate
yes

Research Stay
no

Paid position?
yes

Start
spring 2012

Length
3 years

Working Language
English, German

Language of the Doctoral Thesis
English, German

Subject Requirements (Qualification)
Application for BioStruct PhD scholarships is open to excellent candidates holding a MSc or Diploma degree in the fields of Biochemistry, Biology, Chemistry or related.
All BioStruct Applicants are expected to have achieved excellent results in their graduation and to show a high motivation and commitment for PhD studies in biostructural research applied to molecular medicine or biotechnology. To be considered applicants must have submitted a complete application prior to the Actual Submission Deadline and must be fluent in written and spoken English and/or German language.
http://www.uni- duesseldorf.de/home/Fakultaeten/math_nat/Graduiertenkollegs/biostruct/Ap plication/Scholarship#a3

Type of Persons
PhD student

Compulsory Attachments

• Curriculum vitae
• Copy of university degree
• Letter of motivation
• see link

University / Organisation
Heinrich-Heine-Universit�t D�sseldorf
40225 D�sseldorf

Faculty / Institute
NRW Research School BioStruct
D�sseldorf

Supervisor of the Doctoral Thesis
Herr Prof. Dr. Carsten Korth
http://www.biostruct.de