PhD position Molecular Cell Biology

Job description

Peroxisomes are multifunctional organelles that occur in almost all eukaryotic cells. Their importance is illustrated by the occurrence of severe, often lethal inherited human disorders that are caused by defects in peroxisome formation or function.

Peroxisomes consist of a single membrane that encloses a matrix, which exclusively is composed of enzymes that perform a wide range of important metabolic functions. Several non-metabolic peroxisome functions have recently been identified, such as ageing and inflammatory and antiviral signaling. Therefore, peroxisomes are highly significant in human health and disease.

The research of this PhD project focusses on the molecular mechanisms of peroxisome formation using the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae as a model organism. This project aims to understand how two very important and conserved peroxisomal membrane proteins, Pex13 and Pex14, are sorted to their target membrane upon synthesis in the cytosol. The proposal builds on our recent discovery that the current main models of peroxisomal membrane protein sorting are no longer generally valid.

The impact of this work is high because the outcome of this research can be translated to higher eukaryotes, including man. This may contribute to improving the diagnosis of peroxisome related diseases and may provide leads for novel therapies.

Qualifications

The successful candidate will have the following qualifications:
• MSc degree in Molecular Life Sciences/Molecular Biology
• undergraduate research experience in the field of eukaryotic cell biology
• preferably experience with microscopy and yeast as a model organism
• knowledge on the molecular biology of cell organelles
• very good knowledge of written and spoken English
• excellent communication skills
• enthusiasm for research in an interdisciplinary setting
• team player with a pro-active attitude
• enthusiastic about research.

Conditions of employment

The University of Groningen offers a salary of € 2,191 gross per month in the first year to a maximum of € 2,801 gross per month in the final year (salary scale Dutch Universities), based on a fulltime position (1.0 fte) excluding a 8% holiday allowance and a 8.3% end of the year bonus.

The position offered is for four years. Each 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 contract period is to be expected. A PhD training programme is part of the agreement and the successful candidate will be enrolled in the Graduate School of the Faculty. The conditions of employment are available at the University of Groningen website under Human Resources: https://www.rug.nl/about-ug/work-with-us/

The preferred starting date is 1 February 2017.

Application
You may apply for this position until 31 October / before 1 November 2016 Dutch local time by means of the application form (click on "Apply" below on the advertisement on the university website).

Applications for the position should include:

·         cover letter

·         curriculum vitae, including details of bachelor and master degrees and publication list, if applicable

·         short (1-2 pages) description of previous research experience, such as the bachelor/master research projects

·         name and (email) address of two professional references.

Unsolicited marketing is not appreciated.

Information

For information you can contact:

·         Prof. Ida J. van der Klei, +31 50 3632179, i.j.van.der.klei@rug.nl

(please do not use for applications)