PhD student (f/m/d) - “How cancer cells survive centrosome amplification and strategies that disturb these survival mechanisms”

The laboratory of Prof. Dr. Elmar Schiebel at the Center for Molecular Biology (ZMBH), Heidelberg University is seeking a

PhD student (f/m/d) for a position: “How cancer cells survive centrosome amplification and strategies that disturb these survival mechanisms”

The position is to be filled in with 23,7 hours/week (60%) with starting date based on mutual agreement.

The centrosome is the main microtubule organizing centre in mammalian cells. As DNA, centrosomes duplicate once per cell cycle. Malfunction of centrosome duplication is a hallmark of cancer cells and recent data suggest that centrosome overamplification contributes to cell transformation. Cells with supernumerary centrosomes cluster centrosomes together to maintain pseudo-bipolarity associated with low-grade aneuploidy and cell survival. HSET, a nonessential minus end-directed motor of the kinesin-14 family, is a centrosome clustering molecule essential for viability of extra centrosome-bearing cancer cells. However, additional mechanisms cooperate with HSET and ensure survival of cells with supernumerary centrosomes. In this project we will analyse such mechanisms and how they mechanistically work together with HSET.

This project involves constructing cell lines using CRISPR/Cas9 technology, the use of protein degron technology for the rapid depletion of proteins, live cell image analysis of cells defective in centrosome clustering, and analysis of organoids with supernumerary centrosomes.

Your tasks:

• Carry through an independent research project under supervision
• Write scientific articles and the PhD thesis on the grounds of your research project
• Complete required PhD courses
• Participate in national and international congresses and scientific meetings
• Obtain experience with teaching or other types of dissemination related to your PhD project

Your profile:

• Master degree in biology, biochemistry, cell biology or molecular biology
• Fluency in English and excellent written and oral communication skills

We offer an international and attractive work environment. The salary is based on TV-L scale (E13). The position is limited to two years, with the possibility of extension.

Successful candidates will be part of an international team of PhD students and postdocs that works at the forefront of scientific research. The PhD student (m/w/d) will be a member of the Heidelberg Biosciences International Graduate School (HBIGS) (www.hbigs.uni-heidelberg.de/ ).

Applications should be sent to Prof. Dr. Elmar Schiebel ([email protected] ) in one single PDF-file that includes CV, a letter of motivation, copy of bachelor and master transcripts and name of 2 referees.

Mailing address: Prof. Dr. Elmar Schiebel, ZMBH, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 282, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany. We ask for your understanding that application documents received by post will not be returned.

For literature on this topic, please follow this link to our website:

www.zmbh.uni-heidelberg.de/Schiebel/open.html

Closing date for applications:15.02.2023.

Heidelberg University stands for equal opportunities and diversity. Qualified female candidates are especially invited to apply. Persons with severe disabilities will be given preference if they are equally qualified. Information on job advertisements and the collection of personal data is available at www.uni-heidelberg.de/en/job-market .