The International Leibniz Research School (ILRS Jena) gives PhD students the possibility to prepare for their PhD exam in an ambitious program providing excellent research conditions.
We invite applications for a PhD Student Position (Ref.No. 09/2011)
Redox proteomics of the stress response of A. fumigatus
The filamentous fungus Aspergillus fumigatus is a ubiquitously distributed saprophyte which, however, can cause life-threatening invasive infections in immunocompromised patients. During the infection, A. fumigatus has to cope with various environmental changes. It has been shown that regulation of the redox homeostasis is an important trait for pathogenic microorganisms to survive in the host.
To gain more insights into the mechanisms how A. fumigatus maintains redox homeostasis and to learn which proteins are specifically modified under redox imbalance, we aim at characterising the redox proteome of A. fumigatus under oxidative and nitrosative stress conditions. For this purpose a fluorescence-based thiol modification assay using 2D-gel electrophoretic (2-DE) protein separation will be used for the identification of cysteine oxidations in A. fumigatus proteins. Furthermore, a 2-DE based technology coupled with Oxyblot staining and MS experiments will be applied to identify targets of protein carbonylation. In the course of the project, also LC-MS-based methods will be established. The study will be complemented by the characterisation of A. fumigatus deletion mutants lacking important redox regulators (e.g. CCAAT-complex) or enzymes involved in cell redox homeostasis (e.g. glutathione peroxidases). Targets of protein modifications due to protein oxidation and carb
onylation will also be investigated during interaction with phagocytic cells of the innate immune system to gain a comprehensive picture of the A. fumigatus redox proteome.
We expect:
- a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Natural or Life Sciences. Research at ILRS is centred around “Microbial and Biomolecular Interactions”. Candidates about to earn their degree are welcome to apply.
- high motivation and interest to join one of the research areas of ILRS
- an integrative and cooperative personality
- very good communication skills in English
We offer:
- a top-level research environment
- efficient supervision by a team of supervisors
- a comprehensive mentoring program (cf. Program of Study)
- courses in state-of-the-art technologies and soft skills
- strong communication and interaction between the involved institutions
- Jena – City of Science: innovative business activities, successful scientific centres and a vibrant cultural scene around the famous Friedrich Schiller University
Further information:
Dr. Olaf Kniemeyer, PI olaf.kniemeyer@hki-jena.de
Dr. Christine Vogler, ILRS Coordinator ilrs@hki-jena.de
For the first step of the application procedure please acquaint yourself with the scientific projects offered on our website
and thoroughly fill in the “Statement of Interest” form downloadable from this site. The application procedure is handled online exclusively via the ILRS website. Applications in English including the completed “Statement of Interest”, curriculum vitae, copies of relevant certificates (MSc, BSc, etc.), and references should be submitted to:
Deadline for application: November 30, 2011.