1.5-year Postdoctoral position available for studying the role of sialic ac

at  Syddansk Universitet

BACKGROUND:

Protein glycosylation, the process of attaching sugar units to proteins that reside on the surface of cells, plays a crucial role in cell communication and migration, vital for the formation of organs like the brain. A significant distinction between humans and our primate kin is the existence of a sugar molecule known as sialic acids (SA) on the proteins of cell surfaces. Humans, due to a mutation in the CMAH gene (which converts N-acetylneuraminic acid (Neu5Ac) into N-glycolylneuraminic acid (Neu5Gc)), only possess the precursor molecule Neu5Ac. In contrast, greater Apes possess both Neu5Ac and Neu5Gc. This mutation occurred post our common ancestry with chimpanzees. This alteration in SAs has led to changes in proteins that interact with sialic acid and other related proteins. Coupled with other variations in enzymes associated with SA biology between humans and monkeys, these changes could affect brain development and contribute to unique human traits. In our current project, we aim to utilize gene editing technology (CRISPR/Cas9) to alter key genes involved in SA biology in induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). We will then use these modified cells to investigate early brain development in iPSC-derived 3D brain organoids, employing Omics and imaging techniques.

QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE CANDIDATE

A successful candidate should have a Ph.D. degree in cell biology, molecular biology, glycobiology or proteomics and should be highly motivated and innovative. A candidate must have significant experience in stem cell cultures and preferably stem cell-based 3D cell cultures. Experience in LC-based mass spectrometry of peptides, glycoproteomics or proteomics and microscopy are strong merits. Excellent communication and writing skills and an ability to interact socially and scientifically with other laboratory members and collaborators are essential. Previous postdoc experience and a strong publication record are also strong merits.

Please refer the Job description for details