Postdoctoral fellowship (2 years) to study Mitochondrial protein quality control

A 2-year postdoctoral fellowship is available to study mitochondrial protein quality control, focusing on mitochondrially-encoded proteins. The research will be carried out at the Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Umeå University, which offers a stimulating and international research environment.

Research description

Mitochondria are vital cellular organelles of endosymbiotic origin, hence containing their own genome. As essential building blocks of the respiratory chain, mitochondrially-encoded proteins are important for cellular energy homeostasis and thus, for cellular functionality. To maintain cellular health, particularly, during the ageing process, protein quality control (PQC) of mitochondrial protein is essential. Despite our growing knowledge of the molecular principles on PQC of nuclear-encoded proteins, PQC mechanisms of mitochondrially-encoded proteins remain largely elusive. Our research aims to decipher the molecular principles of these PQC mechanisms in health, age, and disease.

In this project, we will use the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae as a powerful tool to perform genome-wide genetic screens to identify components and regulators for the quality control of mitochondrially-encoded proteins. Proximity-labelling approaches and cutting-edge biochemical techniques will be applied for functional characterizations. Validation of major findings and their potential medical implications will be subsequently studied using human cell lines.

Qualifications

The candidate should hold, or be about to be awarded, a PhD degree or equivalent in biochemistry, cell or molecular biology, genetics or a related discipline. We are seeking highly motivated applicants with practical experience in protein biochemistry. The candidate is expected to have a strong track record in a relevant field of research, documented by first authorship in peer-reviewed original publications. Previous experience in studying mitochondrial proteins, and in particular protein quality control, using S. cerevisiae and/or human cell cultures as model systems is a strong merit. Knowledge and/or skills with high-throughput screening approaches are considered additional assets. An ability to take initiative and to function both independently and as part of an international team are required. Good oral and written communication skills in English are essential.

The application

The application should be written in English and include:

• a cover letter describing your scientific background and goals for this post-doctoral period (max. one A4 page),
• a CV including a full publication list,
• a copy of the PhD certificate (or proof of a scheduled PhD defence within the near future),
• names and contact information of three reference persons.

Submit your complete application, in a single pdf-file marked with reference number FS 2.1.6-2356-23 both in the file name and in the subject field of the email, to medel@diarie.umu.se. Application deadline is 14 January 2024.

Further information

For further information on this project, please see the lab website at www.kohler-mitolab.com or contact Andreas Kohler at andreas.kohler@umu.se.

We welcome your application!