Interaction of Rhodopsin and Cryptochrome as the Basis for Opto-Magnetic sensing in Birds
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Magnetosensing is mandatory for seasonal long distant flights of birds and butterflies from north to south and back and to find the home places of previous years. During the past 40 years strong evidence has been collected that for magnetic orientation blue light sensitive Cryptochromes within the retina of the eyes are responsible. However, since birds are able to navigate at very low light intensities during the night an interaction of the abundant rhodopsins with the only scarcely expressed Cryptochromes has been suggested. In the open project unusual rhodopsins of birds and butterflies and their interaction with Cryptochromes will be studied and characterized in detail in order to understand animal magnetic sensing. Behavioral studies will be carried out in collaboration with behavioral zoologists.
KEYWORDS
Magnetosensing, Photobiology, unusual rhodopsins, flavin-based photoreceptors, UV-Vis and infrared spectroscopy, EPR, ultra-fast spectroscopy.
Entry requirements
The applicant needs a MSc. degree (or equivalent) in biochemistry, biophysics, biology or related fields. Basic skills in molecular biology are mandatory. The applicant should be prepared to work in a highly interdisciplinary team with strong international collaborations.
LOCATION
Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Biology, Experimental Biophysics, Invalidenstraße 42, D-10115 Berlin
STARTING DATE
Between August and December 2023
FUNDING
Four years of funding (3+1, three years with the possibility to extend for one year)
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