Postdoctoral Opportunity in Molecular Virology

Vaccine

OB DESCRIPTION

A postdoctoral position is available in the group of Prof. Patrick Matthias(http://www.fmi.ch/matthias.p) at the FMI in Basel, Switzerland, to study the role of the deacetylase HDAC6 in viral infection.

Our lab has a long-standing interest in understanding the biological roles of Histone Deacetylases (HDACs), enzymes which are of high medical relevance in multiple settings (e.g. Kwon et al., G&D, 2007; Zhang et al., MCB 2008; Yamaguchi et al., G&D 2010; Jacob et al., Nat Neurosci 2011). We have recently identified an unexpected novel role for HDAC6 and Ubiquitin in infection by influenza virus: in this case, HDAC6, by interacting with ubiquitin and motor proteins, forms the basis of a molecular module that helps viral uncoating and facilitates infection (Banerjee et al., Science 2014).

Funded by the Swiss initiative for Systems Biology (SystemsX.ch), the VirX project follows a multi-disciplinary approach and brings together several labs with key expertise in virology, deacetylases, biochemistry, structural biology and mathematical analysis. The overall aim of the VirX consortium is to expand these initial observations to get a detailed understanding of the role of the HDAC6/Ubiquitin module for infection by influenza and other viruses. This will include a diverse set of experimental techniques such as molecular and structural studies, cell biological analysis, transgenic mouse work, shRNA screenings and mathematical modeling.

The project in the group of Prof. Matthias will in particular focus on understanding in detail the formation and regulation of the HDAC6/Ubiquitin module, identifying modulators and analyzing in vivo outcomes in mice that have been engineered to alter the pathway.

DESIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

The position requires a strong training in molecular biology and biochemistry; additional expertise in cell biology and/or in vivo work is an important additional asset. The candidates should have a demonstrated publication record, be highly self-motivated and work well in a team as well as an individual contributor.

Applications including a CV, research experience, a statement of research objectives and contact details for at least 2 references, should be submitted atwww.fmi.ch/opening or through the button below. Applications will be considered until May 25, 2015, or until the position is filled.

For further information please contact Patrick Matthias patrick.matthias@fmi.ch.

ABOUT THE EMPLOYER

The Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research FMI is an international institute devoted to fundamental biomedical research aimed at understanding the basic molecular mechanisms of health and disease. The FMI offers a highly stimulating working environment with access to cutting-edge core facilities. For further information see www.fmi.ch.