PhD position

PhD position Cell Biochemistry (1,0 fte)

Organisation

The research group Cell Biochemistry is part of the Groningen Bio-molecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute (GBB) in the Faculty of Science and Engineering of the University of Groningen. The Cell Biochemistry group's main area of research are; 1) cell movement and signal transduction during chemotaxis and aggregation in Dictyostelium discoideum ,and 2) the activation mechanism of Parkinson’s disease related LRRK2. The research is strongly multidisciplinary and includes molecular biology, biochemistry, structural biology and microscopy. The group provides a lively, internationally oriented, scientific environment with excellent facilities.

Description of the project

A central problem in cell biology lies in understanding how small-scale biochemical interactions generate large-scale organization and cellular structure. Eukaryotic cells move and navigate in gradients of diffusive molecules. This process, called chemotaxis, the directional movement towards a chemical compound, is an essential property of many cells and has been linked to the development of several diseases. Chemotaxis is a complex cellular process involving a multitude of signaling pathways and molecules. In recent studies we have identified the essential basal signaling module of chemotaxis in Dictyostelium, which consists of heterotrimeric and small G-proteins (Kortholt et al., 2013). The next challenge will be to discover additional components of this basal pathway.

Job description of the PhD

To gain further insight into the mechanism of chemotaxis we have used a novel mass-pull-down proteomic strategy to isolate G-protein effectors and regulators. With this approach we found several new putative regulators of G-protein signaling and new putative effectors involved in the regulation of development and chemotaxis (Kataria et al., 2013). The aim of this project is to characterize the interactions of a subset of interesting proteins and characterize their function by biochemical and genetic analysis using the Dictyostelium model.

Qualifications

Successful candidates must have completed a research master in biology, chemistry or pharmacy, be highly motivated and interested in both biochemistry and cell biology. Have a good command of the English language (oral and written) and possess excellent communication skills (indicated by the ability to write scientific papers and deliver presentations).

Conditions of employment

The University of Groningen offers a salary of € 2083,-- (salary scale 50.0) gross per month in the first year, up to a maximum of € 2664,-- (scale 50.3) gross per month in the final year, based on a full-time position. The position requires residence in Groningen and must result in a PhD thesis within the 4-year contract period. A PhD training program is part of the agreement and the successful candidate will be enrolled in the Graduate School of Science. The successful candidate will first be offered a temporary position of one year with the option of renewal for another three years. Prolongation of the contract is contingent on sufficient progress in the first year to indicate that a successful completion of the PhD thesis within the next three years is to be expected.

How to apply

Applications, including a letter of motivation, a curriculum vitae, a list of publications (if any), a list of examination marks, and the contact information of two academic referees, must be submitted online through the website http://www.rug.nl/corporate/vacatures/vacaturesRUG. All applications received by November 30, 2014 will be given full consideration.

Acquisition is not appreciated.

Information

For information you can contact:

Dr. A. Kortholt, e-mail: A.Kortholt rug.nl

(please do not use for applications)

Additional information

About the research
http://www.rug.nl/research/cell-biochemistry/

http://www.rug.nl/staff/a.kortholt/research