PhD position in Quantitative Cell Biology/Biochemistry (1.0 FTE)

We are looking for a highly motivated and enthusiastic PhD candidate with a strong background in (bio)chemistry, cell biology, (bio)physics or closely related fields to join the Cell Cycle Dynamics group of Dr Julia Kamenz.

In a human body, billions of cells divide every single day. Errors during cell division or uncontrolled cell proliferation can have detrimental consequences including cancer development. Our research focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying the regulation of cell proliferation and cell division. These studies include (1) the intricate regulation of the kinases and phosphatases involved in the processes of cell division, (2) the impact of post-translational modifications in regulating cell division – in particular phosphorylations – and (3) studying the complex signaling networks surveying and controlling cell cycle progression. Specifically, this PhD project focusses on how multisite phosphorylation of large mitotic complexes defines the temporal dynamics of their functions during mitosis.

To tackle these questions, we combine a variety of cell biological, biochemical and systems biological approaches including Xenopus laevis egg extracts, enzyme biochemistry, fluorescence live cell imaging of human cells and computational modelling. The PhD candidate will have access to state-of-the-art microscopes, mass spectrometry, tissue culture and animal facilities.

The Cell Cycle Dynamics group is embedded in the Molecular Systems Biology unit at the Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute, which provides an inspiring, interdisciplinary and collaborative research environment. The PhD candidate will further receive excellent training through innovative research projects, advanced courses and training opportunities, complemented by workshops on research, transferable skills and teaching. As a PhD candidate, you are committed to conduct independent and original scientific research, to report on this research in international publications and presentations, and to present the results of the research in a PhD dissertation, to be completed within 4 years.