Postdoc position in eukaryotic RNA biology at Uppsala University, Sweden.May 1, 2023 Multicellularity has appeared several times during evolution, commonly studied in animals and plants. Another less analyzed form of multicellular life style, so called aggregative multicellularity, has independently evolved in different lineages. Regardless of type, multicellular development has traditionally been studied from a protein-centered perspective. However, it is now clear that organism complexity correlates with the number of non-coding (nc)RNA genes, suggesting that ncRNAs are important for evolution of multicellularity. Research in the Söderbom group (https://www.icm.uu.se/microbiologyimmunology/soderbom-lab/) at the Dept. of Cell and Molecular Biology, Uppsala University is focused on the function and evolution of noncoding (nc)RNAs and their role in the evolution of multicellularity. In particular, we are studying microRNAs (mi)RNAs and a novel class of ncRNAs, Class I RNAs. We are now seeking a highly motivated and enthusiastic postdoc to join the Söderbom research group in this effort. Project: Regulatory non-coding RNAs: A driving force for multicellularity? We have identified a novel class of ncRNAs, Class I RNAs, that appears to be involved in the transition from uni- to multicellular life style in dictyostelid social amoebas. Recently, we showed that all analyzed dictyostelids have large numbers of genes for Class I RNAs but so far, we have not identified them in true unicellular organisms. We would now like to find out the function of Class I RNA, e.g. which genes do they regulate and how, and the molecular impact of Class I RNA on multicellularity. We are also interested in the commonality of Class I RNAs - are they present in other organisms displaying aggregative multicellularity? To address these questions, we will use a wide range of methods within molecular biology, biochemistry, imaging, and RNA-seq. Qualifications: Highly motivated candidate with a background in molecular biology, cell biology, microbiology, or equivalent. Experience within RNA biology is a merit but not a requirement. The candidate should be able to work independently as well as in a team. Excellent communication skills (written and spoken English) is a requirement. Assessment of personal suitability will be an important aspect in the selection. The applicant must have received his/her PhD degree within the last six years. Position: The project is funded by a tax-free 2-year scholarship (Carl Trygger’s Foundation). How to apply: Please send your application (in English) to [email protected] with the subject heading “Postdoc application”. The application must include the following documents combined into a single pdf file: - A cover letter describing your interest and suitability for the position Applications will be evaluated on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Questions: For questions regarding this position, please e-mail me at [email protected] |