BAD NAUHEIM

Developmental and Evolutionary Biology & Genetics Immunobiology and Infection Biology & Medicine Physiology

Job Code: 2022_18Job Offer from July 13, 2022

The Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research in Bad Nauheim (near Frankfurt, Germany), Department of Developmental Genetics (Prof. Dr. Didier Stainier) invites applications for a Ph.D. candidate (f/m/d) to study transcriptional adaptation in human health and disease.

A highly motivated Ph.D. candidate is invited to join an exciting project to study the therapeutic aspects of transcriptional adaptation.

We recently discovered a new form of genetic compensation that we have termed transcriptional adaptation. Briefly, transcriptional adaptation occurs when a mutation leads to mutant mRNA degradation.  The degradation fragments in turn modulate the expression of ‘related’ genes, and consequently varying degrees of phenotypic rescue in some cases. We have observed this phenomenon in zebrafish and C. elegans as well as in mouse and human cells in culture. 

This is a novel and quickly developing field of research where many open questions remain to be addressed including 1) the relevance of transcriptional adaptation in human health, 2) the regulation of related genes by the degradation fragments or their derivatives, and 3) the nature and trafficking of the degradation fragments. For more detailed information, please see our recent publications: (Genetic compensation triggered by mutant mRNA degradation; Genetic compensation induced by deleterious mutations but not gene knockdowns; Transcriptional adaptation in Caenorhabditis elegans) and associated reviews.

Required qualificatios

Candidates holding, or anticipating to receive before starting, a university master’s degree (M.Sc. or equivalent) are eligible to apply.  An M.Sc. in biology, biochemistry or a similar subject with a focus on molecular biology, cell biology, and biochemistry is preferred. Experience in RNA biology is a plus. 

About the employer

The Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research in Bad Nauheim is an interdisciplinary research institution with international flair. Our researchers have the opportunity to work on various model systems by making use of the latest cutting-edge technologies. Researchers are supported by state-of-the-art core facilities which offer services in next-generation sequencing, proteomics, bioinformatics, cytometry, microscopy, and small animal imaging.

The Max Planck Society strives for gender and diversity equality; we welcome applications from all backgrounds. Furthermore, the Max Planck Society is committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from such qualified individuals.

Recruitment timeline and how to apply

The applications will be evaluated upon submission. The expected start date is flexible (earliest possible date). To apply, please submit the names and contact information for 2-3 references, a CV, and a short statement (2 pages max.) of your research experience and interests to cansu.cirzi@mpi-bn.mpg.de. For further information, do not hesitate to get in touch with Dr. Cansu Cirzi.

Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research
Department of Developmental Genetics
Ludwigstraße 43
61231 Bad Nauheim
Germany