University of Sussex
Genome Damage and Stability centre
Salary: Grade 7 £28,290 – £33,780
Two 3-year Postdoctoral Fellowships are available from August 1st 2008 in the laboratory of Dr Alessandro Bianchi to study the composition and function of the telomeric complex in budding and fission yeast cells.
Telomeres are nucleo-protein structures found at the ends of Eukaryotic chromosomes, where they carry out essential roles in DNA replication and chromosome protection. Defects in telomere function have detrimental effects on cells and also consequences for human health, affecting both the ageing process and oncogenic transformation.
The telomerase enzyme is responsible for the maintenance of telomeric DNA. In turn, telomeric DNA recruits a large number of protein factors (collectively constituting the telomeric complex) which mediates telomere function, both by regulating the action of telomerase (and orchestrating it with conventional DNA replication), and by ensuring proper chromosome protection. We are interested in deciphering the molecular mechanism by which the telomeric complex carries out its multiple functions. To this goal we will pursue several avenues, employing both genetic and biochemical approaches, primarily in the budding and fission yeast systems. There is substantial flexibility in the posts, depending on the skills of the successful applicant. The post holders should have experience in molecular and cell biology. Previous experience with yeast is preferable but not necessary.
References
Bianchi, A., and Shore, D. (2007). Genes Dev, 21:1726-1730.
Bianchi, A., and Shore, D. (2007). Cell, 128:1051-1062.
Negrini, S., Ribaud, V., Bianchi, A., and Shore, D. (2007). Genes Dev, 21:292-302
Bianchi, A., Negrini, S, and Shore, D. (2004). Mol Cell, 16:139-146.
The Genome Damage and Stability Centre is an internationally renowned Institute carrying out research on the response of cells to DNA damage, genome instability and its relationship to human disease. We provide a stimulating and supportive environment and our expertise covers a range of experimental systems. Further information about our research can be obtained from our website at http://www.sussex.ac.uk/gdsc/
More information can be obtained informally from Alessandro Bianchi, Tel 00 41 22 379 3557, alessandro.bianchi@molbio.unige.ch
Closing date for applications is 16th July 2008.
For full details and how to apply see: www.sussex.ac.uk/jobs
Application details are available from, and should be returned to, the Human Resources Division, Sussex House, University of Sussex, Falmer, Brighton, BN1 9RH. Fax 01273 877401, email: lifescirecruitment@sussex.ac.uk
The University of Sussex is an equal opportunities employer
