PhD Student (gn*) Developmental and Cell Biology

PhD Student (gn*) Developmental and Cell Biology

Reference Number: 10250

Fixed-term of 3 years | Part-time with 65% | Salary grade TV-L E13 | Institute of Cell Biology

We are UKM. We have a clear social mission and, with our focus on healthcare, research, and teaching, we bear a unique responsibility.

To meet our high standards every day, we are looking forward to your scientific expertise in the Institute of Cell Biology in mechanobiology – ideally with you on board!

Our lab investigates the spatio-temporal dynamics of microtubule cytoskeleton organization and force regulation during tissue morphogenesis in Drosophila. Specifically, we aim to understand how cells regulate and coordinate cytoskeletal forces to control cell architecture and collective cell behaviors. Our research combines innovative optical and chemical tools with classical genetic techniques and advanced image analysis to study cytoskeletal force dynamics quantitatively. A key focus is understanding how microtubules contribute to morphogenetic tissue rearrangements and wound healing processes.

SPECIFIC RESEARCH PROJECT:

Microtubules are indispensable structural elements in living systems. Their unique mechanical properties play a central role in many cellular functions, including cell division, motility, intracellular transport, and the generation of various cellular architectures. Their mechanical resilience is provided by their structure, making them the most rigid intracellular cytoskeletal filaments. In this project, we will investigate the molecular mechanisms that regulate the biophysical properties of microtubules. Features of individual microtubules largely differ depending on (i) expression of different α- and β-tubulin isoforms and (ii) post-translational modifications (PTMs) of individual tubulin monomers. However, despite their importance, the role of different tubulin isoforms and PTMs in cell and tissue mechanics has, to date, not been addressed in vivo. To identify the “mechanical” tubulin code, we will analyze the expression pattern of tubulin isoforms, address their role in regulating microtubule properties, study PTMs of non-centrosomal microtubules, and test their role in cell and tissue remodeling when they are exposed to increased mechanical stress.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Motivated PhD student with a background in fly genetics, light microscopy, cell biology or biophysics.
• Good English and communication skills.
• Interest in different scientific fields, needed due to the interdisciplinary nature of the project and the group.

Apply now via our career portal until 05.03.2025 including:

• Letter of motivation/statement of research interests.
• CV.
• Publication list.
• Details of two referees.

Applications of women are specifically invited. In the case of similar qualifications, competence, and specific achievements, women will be considered on preferential terms within the framework of the legal possibilities. Handicapped candidates with equivalent qualifications will be given preference. Due to legal requirements, working with us is only permitted with complete vaccination against measles.

(*gn=genderneutral)

#J-18808-Ljbffr