| Open Positions in the Knop Lab
Open PhD positions.
Project 1
Quantitative analysis of MAP-kinase signaling networks using functional high-content microscopy
Quantitative descriptions of cellular signaling processes require knowledge about the activity, distribution and dynamics of all involved components. We study the yeast MAP kinase signaling pathways as a paradigmatic model for signal transduction and we use advanced microscopic methods such as fluorescence correlations spectroscopy and higcontent imaging in order to obtain quantitative information about protein distribution and interactions in living cells as a function of ongoing signaling processes. The project will use genetic methods for manipulation of yeast strains and combine these with fuctional investigations and microscopic methods to study the protein-protein interaction network of the components that constitute the four main MAP kinase pathways in yeast. The methods involve state-of-the-art microscopy, microfluidics and cell biological experimentation and are conducted in the framework of an interdisciplinary team of scientists with different backgrounds, from physics, bioinformatics to yeast genetics.
Project 2
Meiotic recombination and chromosome segregation
Meiosis and recombination are the key processes underlying biological diversity in eukaryotic life forms, and they have a major impact on the evolution of genomes. In this project we study the role and molecular processes of genome recombination and evolution, by using a paradigmatic model system, the novel yeast species Saccharomyces ludwigii. The questions we address are: how does meiosis I proceed in the absence of chiasmata, and what are the molecular mechanisms that ensure faithful segregation of the homologs in meiosis I. How does the absence of crossing over impact genome and proteome evolution?
To study these questions we have established this novel model organism, sequenced its genome. The project will use state-of-the-art genetics and molecular biology, as well as microscopy to address the questions in collaborations with bioinformaticans working on the genomics aspects of this project.
Project 3
Cellular protein homeostasis: gene dosage compensation
Cellular protein homeostasis ensures for each protein optimal levels at the location of its function within the organism. Protein homeostasis is governed by a series of feedback controlled regulatory circuits that encompass each level of the entire cellular machinery. The scope of this project is to explore the mechanisms and principles that underlie translational and post-translational control mechanisms that regulate protein abundance. A particular focus of the project will be to understand how cells compensate for erroneous under- or overexpression of proteins. Using proteome wide approaches in combination with high-content screening microscopy, the project will explore which proteins are subject to homeostatic control. Subsequent analysis using systemic genetic approaches will then explore the regulatory mechanisms behind and will focus on understanding the mechanisms and principles.
For more details and for application please visit the HBIGS PhD programme web page
http://www.hbigs.uni-heidelberg.de
If you need further information please send me an email (m.knop@zmbh.uni-heidelberg.de)
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