Fully Funded PhD Scholarship in Centrosome Biology

Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates for a 4-year, full-time funded PhD scholarship(s) starting in June-October 2024 affiliated to the School of Biological and Chemical Sciences at the University of Galway.

University of Galway

Located in the vibrant cultural city of Galway in the west of Ireland, the University of Galway has a distinguished reputation for teaching and research excellence

For information on moving to Ireland please see www.euraxess.ie

Detailed Project Description

Centrosomes are the principal microtubule organising centres in animal somatic cells. They assemble the poles of the mitotic spindle, regulate cell polarity and movement, and form the base of primary cilia. Changes in the number of centrosomes and in centrosome stability are frequently seen in cancer or in senescent cells. Such changes can cause significant problems in mitosis and cause cell death or aneuploidy. This PhD project will explore how key centrosome structures are assembled and the molecular details of how they function after DNA damage and replicative senescence. Centrosomes are composed of one or two microtubule-based centrioles within a cloud of pericentriolar material. We will use reverse genetics and expansion microscopy to explore how key centriolar protein complexes ensure centriolar integrity and cohesion during the cell cycle and after genotoxic stress or cellular senescence.

Living allowance (Stipend): €22,000 per annum, [tax-exempt scholarship award]

University fees:  Covered by scholarship

Start date: June - October 2024 (negotiable)

Academic Entry Requirements: B.Sc. (Honours) and/ or M.Sc. in molecular/ cell biology or biochemistry or a cognate discipline, awarded within the last 5 years.

To Apply for the Scholarship: Candidates should email a covering letter and a CV in a single PDF attachment to Professor Ciaran Morrison (ciaran.morrison@universityofgalway.ie).  Candidates should outline their motivation for this position and relevant technical experience in their covering letter. Three referees should be provided.  Reprints of papers or copies of degree certificates should not be included in the application.  Please put reference University of Galway 106-PhD1 in the subject line of the e-mail application.

Primary Supervisor name: Professor Ciaran Morrison

Contact Email:ciaran.morrison@universityofgalway.ie

Application Deadline: Friday May 3, 2024at 17:00 (Irish time)