The International Leibniz Research School (ILRS Jena) gives PhD students the possibility to prepare for their PhD exam in an ambitious program providing excellent research conditions.
We invite applications for a PhD Student Position (Ref.No. 03/2011)
Post-translational modifications and pathogenicity of the human pathogenic fungus Aspergillus fumigatus
Aspergillus fumigatus is the most important airborne fungal pathogen. The frequency of invasive mycoses due to this opportunistic fungal pathogen has increased significantly over the past two decades. In healthy individuals, an infection with A. fumigatus is prevented due to the action of the host immune system. The innate immune system represents the first line of defence against A. fumigatus conidia and immediately confronts the inhaled conidia. We showed that the presence of melanin in the conidia inhibits the acidification of phagolysosomes in macrophages and thus protects the fungus.
During the interaction of the fungus with the host, it is very likely that post-translational regulation, e.g. by histone modifications, plays an important role for pathogenicity. Recently, we showed that the communication of the related species A. nidulans with a bacterium requires integration of the bacteria-derived signal by the fungal Saga/Ada histone modification complex. But until now, the effects of post-translational modifications of fungal histones for pathogenicity during the different infection stages are unknown. The aim of this project is to understand the post-translational regulatory mechanisms, in particular chromatin modifications, contributing to pathogenicity of the human pathogen A. fumigatus.
We expect:
- a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Natural or Life Sciences. Research at ILRS is centred around “Microbial and Biomolecular Interactions”. Candidates about to earn their degree are welcome to apply.
- high motivation and interest to join one of the research areas of ILRS
- an integrative and cooperative personality
- very good communication skills in English
We offer:
- a top-level research environment
- efficient supervision by a team of supervisors
- a comprehensive mentoring program (cf. Program of Study)
- courses in state-of-the-art technologies and soft skills
- strong communication and interaction between the involved institutions
- Jena – City of Science: innovative business activities, successful scientific centres and a vibrant cultural scene around the famous Friedrich Schiller University
Further information:
Prof. Dr. Axel Brakhage, PI
axel.brakhage@hki-jena.de
Dr. Nora Köster-Eiserfunke, PI nora.koester@hki-jena.de
Dr. Christine Vogler, ILRS Coordinator ilrs@hki-jena.de
For the first step of the application procedure please acquaint yourself with the scientific projects offered on our website
and thoroughly fill in the “Statement of Interest” form downloadable from this site. The application procedure is handled online exclusively via the ILRS website. Applications in English including the completed “Statement of Interest”, curriculum vitae, copies of relevant certificates (MSc, BSc, etc.), and references should be submitted to:
Deadline for application: November 30, 2011.
Anfangsdatum: 1. März 2012
geschätzte Dauer: 3 years
Bezahlung: TV-L