WE ARE LOOKING FOR A

Postdoc in RNA biology (m/f/div)

The Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics is world-class research institute based in Freiburg, Germany. We are looking for a postdoctoral scientist to work in the Department of Chromatin Regulation (Head: Prof. Dr. Asifa Akhtar / https://www.ie-freiburg.mpg.de/akhtar).

Understanding the biological roles of noncoding RNAs and RNA-binding proteins is a major focus of the Akhtar lab. Our lab has identified that the RNA helicase DHX9 plays a critical role in protecting mammalian cells against the deleterious effects of secondary RNA structures. We revealed that DHX9 remodels RNA arising from the abundant Alu class of retrotransposable element in humans, thereby preventing aberrant RNA splicing (Aktas et al., 2017 Nature). In our most recent study we made the unexpected discovery that DHX9 also governs a dedicated protective response against RNA damage. We showed for the first time that the cell sequesters UV-damaged cytoplasmic RNA into phase-separated subcellular organelles known as stress granules, where remodeling of double-stranded damaged RNA by DHX9 is essential for cell viability (Zhou et al., 2024 Cell).

In the future we will investigate DHX9’s function in resolving Alu inverted repeats and UV-induced RNA damage in further molecular detail, as well as interrogate the physiological role(s) of DHX9 in different cell types.

YOUR TASKS:

We are looking for an independent and motivated post-doctoral scientist interested in exploring diverse aspects of RNA biology in mammalian cells. For this we seek applicants with a strong background in experimental work in mouse models and/or in human or mouse 2D or 3D cell culture models. The recruited scientist will apply a combination of methodologies, including NGS techniques, super-resolution microscopy, biochemical assays, proteomics, metabolomics or other techniques, as appropriate.

YOUR QUALIFICATIONS:

Applicants should have an academic degree in life science plus a PhD in molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics, bioinformatics and/or high-resolution imaging
Prior experience working with mouse models and/or with mouse or human cell culture models is required
A minimum of two years of experience in methods to study RNA biology is a prerequisite
Candidates should have at least one first-author publication
The ability to work in a team, communication skills and experience in the supervision of students will be considered assets

WE OFFER:

Located in a region that connects Germany, France and Switzerland, our institute offers an international research environment with outstanding infrastructure facilities and a positive working atmosphere that places a high value on work-life balance.

Payment according to TVöD up to a maximum of E13 if the collectively agreed and personal requirements are fulfilled
Social benefits in line with public service (VBL)
Additional performance-related remuneration component
Professional training and development opportunities
Good public transport connections and subsidy for job ticket
Challenging work in a modern working environment
Mobile working at a location of your choice within Germany is possible up to a maximum of 40% of the regular weekly working hours in justified cases.
Family-friendly offers (affiliated day care center at the institute, parent-child room, breastfeeding room)

Max Planck Institute
of Immunobiology and Epigenetics
Stübeweg 51
79108 Freiburg
Germany

APPLICATION DEADLINE:

Have we sparked your interest? Please submit your complete application, including a statement of research interests and a CV via our online application at http://www.ie-freiburg.mpg.de until 20 September 2024. At the same time, please ask three of your referees to send recommendation letters to shvedunova@ie-freiburg.mpg.de.

The Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics (MPI-IE) in Freiburg, Germany is an interdisciplinary research institution that conducts basic research in two key areas of modern biology: Immunobiology and Epigenetics. Central questions address the molecular basis of cell type identities, as they are regulated during immune cell differentiation, metabolic response and epigenetic chromatin adaptation.

We value and promote diversity, inclusion and equal opportunities, so we welcome applications from all backgrounds. We particularly welcome applications from severely disabled people. We would also like to increase the proportion of women in areas where they are underrepresented and therefore expressly encourage women to apply.

Max Planck Institute
of Immunobiology and Epigenetics
Stübeweg 51
79108 Freiburg
Germany