About us
IMB (www.imb.de) is a research institute on the campus of Johannes Gutenberg University in Mainz, Germany. It is generously funded by the Boehringer Ingelheim Foundation and the state of Rhineland-Palatinate. Our research focuses on the biology of the cell nucleus and ranges from the molecular level to systems and computational approaches. Researchers at IMB are supported by strong core facilities that offer state-of-the-art equipment and training in protein production, microscopy, proteomics, cytometry, genomics and bioinformatics.
The position
Get research experience with the possibility to prestart a PhD Student Position
R-loops are three-stranded nucleic acid structures comprising an RNA hybrid and a displaced single-stranded DNA (ssDNA). The exposed ssDNA makes R-loops a hotspot for DNA modifications that can impact R-loop dynamics, gene regulation and genomic stability (Pubmed: 32005969). Recent studies have revealed that different nucleobases exhibit specific modifications in the context of R-loops, such as cytosine deamination to uracil cytosine oxidation to 5-formylcytosine, or guanosine oxidation to 8-oxoguanine. These modifications regulate R-loop stability and hence potentially affect genome stability and gene expression. R-loop-enriched modifications highlight the importance of understanding their regulatory roles and potential as therapeutic targets in diseases linked to genomic instability. The questions underlying this project are:
- How do specific DNA modifications within R-loops affect their structural stability and dynamics?
- What is the relationship between R-loop-associated DNA modifications and gene regulation?
- How do these modifications contribute to genomic instability and potentially to disease pathogenesis?
You will employ quantitative DNA-RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing to map the locations and frequencies of specific DNA modifications within R-loops across various genomic contexts. You may test the impact of these modifications on R-loop stability using CRISPR-Cas9 to engineer cell lines with and without specific modifications. You will then observe changes in gene expression, R-loop formation/disruption, and cellular phenotypes. You will conduct assays to measure rates of DNA damage, repair efficacy, and cell viability under conditions promoting R-loop formation and modification. This will help correlate specific modifications with increased genomic instability.
During your time as Research Assistant you will have the opportunity to apply for and transfer to the International PhD Programme (IPP).
Requirements
- Masters degree in a relevant area
- Good experience in molecular biology
- Good communication skills and good team spirit
- Ability to solve problems independently
- Fluent in English (spoken and written)
Why join us?
We offer a stimulating, diverse and international research environment, with a pleasant working atmosphere, and informal culture. The institute is modern, well-equipped and centrally located with good public transport links and parking.
Our offer
- Competitive salary and favourable pension scheme
- Advanced training opportunities
- Flexible working hours
- Employee events
- Job Ticket
What else you need to know
- Starting Date: By September 2025
- Duration: initially 6 months with possibility of up to 5y PhD student position pending on successful IPP application
- Deadline: 15th April 2025
- International applicants: we will assist you through the visa process, and also with your application for a residence/work permit after your arrival in Mainz.
Have we sparked your interest?
To apply, please upload your application containing your cover letter stating research and career interests, CV, scans of your degrees (including copies of Abitur- and Master degree if existing) to our application form on imb.de/jobs/scientific-positions. Should you have any questions regarding the application process, please contact us by email hr(at)imb-mainz.de, quoting Ref. No. #CNRA02. Informal enquires should be addressed to Prof Christof Niehrs. IMB is an equal opportunity employer.