MSc Thesis Position in Functional Genomics:

Phase Separation Events in Human Cells

The Jae lab at the Gene Center (Genzentrum) of the Ludwig-Maximilians Universität Munich (LMU) is looking for a highly motivated and skilled master’s student.

Our lab studies the genetic profile of human disease processes with a focus on mitochondrial defects using a combination of CRISPR/Cas9 genome engineering and unbiased genome-wide mutagenesis in haploid human cells (Science, 2013; 2014). High-resolution genetic interaction mapping can be used to discover novel factors in important cellular pathways in an unbiased fashion, annotate the function of ‘orphan genes’ and yield new strategies to therapeutically combat disease (Science, 2015). This approach allows us to directly dissect virtually any cellular phenotype that can be quantified at the single cell level by flow cytometry – previous application include identification of novel factors controlling immune checkpoints (Nature, 2017a), as well as AKT signaling and other key cellular processes (Nature, 2017b). In one of our most recent publications, we deciphered the mitochondrial stress signaling from the organelle to the nucleus in response to a multitude of mitochondrial stressors in human cells (Nature, 2020).

Profile

We are seeking a highly motivated and ambitious candidate who shares our dedication to science and enthusiasm for interdisciplinary research with an excellent degree in biochemistry, biomedicine, human biology, biology, or similar. Excellent communication skills and a solid background in molecular and cellular biology techniques, as well as genetics are required.
As part of our young and independent group you are expected to be able to perform challenging experiments, analyze data of high complexity, and work well in a team. A successful candidate will have the chance to employ state-of-the-art techniques ranging from large-scale genome-wide screens to genome engineering and various tools for the mechanistic dissection of candidate gene function.
The project focuses on phase separation events and the formation of stress granules in cells in which proteomic integrity has been challenged, as is frequently observed in human disease. While these events form an important cytoprotective mechanism, aberrant stress granule formation and other phase separation processes are also associated with devastating neurodegenerative defects such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). To dissect composition, kinetics and dynamics of stress granules in response to various stress signals, the successful candidate will employ cutting edge tools in the area of genome editing, cell biology and biochemistry.

Application

The application should include a CV, a letter of motivation, relevant certificates, and contact information for 2 references and should be send to Lucas Jae jae@genzentrum.lmu.de.
The University of Munich is an equal opportunity employer. Handicapped candidates with equal qualifications will be given preference. For more information visit www.genzentrum.uni-muenchen.de/research-groups/jae/