Postdoctoral fellowship (2 years) to study mitochondrial DNA stability

A 2-year postdoctoral fellowship is available to study proteins that guarantee mitochondrial DNA stability in eukaryotes. The research will be carried out at the Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Umeå University, that offers a stimulating and international research environment.

Research description

Mitochondria are organelles that produce cellular energy in the form of ATP, and defects in mitochondrial function can lead to a number of diseases, including mitochondrial disorders and certain cancers. Mitochondria contain several copies of a double-stranded DNA genome, mtDNA, that encodes for core components of the energy-producing machinery. The mtDNA-encoded subunits are essential for efficient energy production, whereby it is crucial that mtDNA is maintained intact and at a sufficient copy number. Moreover, mitochondrial status must respond to the metabolic needs of the cell and be signalled to the nucleus and other organelles.

In order to better understand disease states involving mitochondrial dysfunction, it is crucial to elucidate how our cells normally ensure the stable maintenance of mtDNA and how mtDNA defects are communicated to the rest of the cell. The aim of this project is to characterize the molecular mechanisms that promote mtDNA stability and investigate the consequences of mtDNA defects in terms of retrograde signalling to the rest of the cell. In this part of the project, these questions will primarily be addressed using in vitro assays based on purified recombinant proteins.

Qualifications

The candidate should hold, or be about to be awarded, a PhD degree or equivalent in biochemistry, cell or molecular biology, genetics or a related discipline. We are seeking highly motivated applicants with practical experience in the expression, purification and functional analysis of recombinant proteins. The candidate is expected to have a strong track record in a relevant field of research, documented by first authorship in peer-reviewed original publications. Previous experience in the fields of mitochondrial DNA metabolism and/or retrograde signalling is a strong merit. An ability to take initiative and to function both independently and as part of an international team is required. Good oral and written communication skills in English are essential.

For further information on this project, please see the lab website at https://www.umu.se/en/research/groups/paulina-wanrooij/ or contact Paulina Wanrooij at [email protected] .

The application

The application should be written in English and include:

• a cover letter describing your scientific background and goals for this post-doctoral period (max. one A4 page),
• a CV including a full publication list,
• a copy of the PhD certificate (or proof of a scheduled PhD defence within the near future),
• names and contact information of three reference persons.

Your complete application, in a single pdf-file and marked with reference number FS 2.1.6-16-23 both in the file name and in the subject field of the email, should be sent to [email protected] , no later than March 12th 2023.

More about the employer

At Umeå University, everything is nearby. Our cohesive campus environment makes it easy to meet, collaborate and exchange knowledge, which promotes a dynamic and open culture where we rejoice in each other’s successes. If you are interested in knowing about Umeå University as a workplace, read more at: https://www.umu.se/en/work-with-us/ .

Umeå University also offers a strong postdoc community with the Umeå Postdoc Society (UPS) which fosters networking amongst postdocs, organises social and career development events and works towards improving the postdoc experience at Umea campus. Check out their website: https://umeapostdocsociety.se/ , and do not hesitate to get in contact with them early on!

We welcome your application!