2 PhD student positions in Medical Science - Befattningen är under tillsättning eller redan tillsatt, och det är inte längre möjligt att lämna in en ansökan

Description of the PhD projects:

The mitochondrion is a unique organelle since it contains multiple copies of a double-stranded circular DNA genome, mtDNA, that encodes for core components of the cell’s 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. Defects in mtDNA maintenance can lead to cellular energy deficiency and manifest as various types of disease. We announce two PhD student positions on mechanisms that maintain mtDNA stability in eukaryotic cells. One position is available under each project. Our aim is to provide the supportive and inspiring environment needed to ensure a good start to your research career.

Project 1: Signalling of mtDNA defects:

Given that mutations, deletions and alterations in mtDNA copy number are implicated in a number of human diseases including certain cancers, it is crucial to elucidate and understand how our cells normally ensure the stable maintenance of mtDNA. The aim of this project is to characterize the molecular mechanisms that protect mtDNA stability and investigate the signalling of mtDNA defects to the rest of the cell. This project involves work with cultured human cells, purified recombinant protein and/or the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae to study the effects of mtDNA damage in eukaryotic cells.

Project 2: MtDNA deletion formation in disease:

Deletions in mtDNA give rise to a variety of neuromuscular symptoms and accumulate in inherited mitochondrial disorders, but also in the affected tissues of Parkinsons’s disease patients. Yet in spite of their medical relevance, little is known about the mechanisms by which mtDNA deletions form, which hampers the development of treatments. The purpose of this project is to find ways to prevent deletion formation in affected individuals. As an essential step towards preventing their formation, we aim to uncover the exact mechanisms by which mtDNA deletions arise, using a combination of in vitro protein biochemistry and human cell- based approaches.

Qualifications:

Applicants must 1) hold a University degree of at least 240 ECTS or equivalent or 2) have 120 Swedish (old) credits (Swe. poäng; corresponding to 180 ECTS credits) of higher education studies in the same fields or equivalent taken before July 1, 2007.

Other merits:
In addition, the applicant should, through university studies or other equivalent education, have gained basic theoretical knowledge in biomedicine or a related field and have good experience of laboratory work. A strong background in molecular biology, protein biochemistry or cell biology is beneficial for the project; experience on DNA metabolism or mitochondrial biology is meriting. For project 1, experience with yeast genetics is considered a strength. The applicant must be able to work both independently and as part of an international team, and high focus will be given to the candidate’s ability to write and understand scientific text.

Specific admission requirements: In order to be admitted to postgraduate studies, it is required that the
applicant has:
1. Necessary knowledge from university higher education or corresponding education and/or special professional experience that is assessed in relation to the research area.
2. Necessary English language skills, both in writing and in speaking. Evaluation of these skills is made by having the intended PhD student present his/her research plan in English for the Department’s designated postgraduate education group.

Further information: paulina.wanrooij@umu.se (project 1) or sjoerd.wanrooij@umu.se (project 2).

Start date: 2020-05-02, or upon agreement.
Salary/type of position: Other information:
https://www.umu.se/en/research/doctoral-studies/

Union information is available from SACO, (0)90-786 53 65, SEKO, (0)90-786 52 96 and ST, (0)90-786 54 31.

The procedure for recruitment for the position is in accordance with the Higher Education Ordinance (chapt. 12, 2 §) and the decision regarding the position cannot be appealed.
Applicants have to apply using our E-recruitment system Varbi. Please state your project preference in the cover letter. Applications must be received by March 27 2020 at the latest and include the ref code AN 2.2.1-288-20.

We look forward to receiving your application!