The Stainier lab is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher with expertise in RNA biology to investigate a form of genetic compensation that we termed transcriptional adaptation.  Briefly, transcriptional adaptation occurs upon mutant mRNA decay, for example due to a premature termination codon.  The decay fragments would in turn modulate the expression of related/adapting genes, leading to varying degrees of phenotypic rescue, in some cases.  We have observed this phenomenon in zebrafish, mouse, C. elegans, and more recently humans.  This is a novel and quickly developing field of research where many open questions remain to be addressed including 1) the nature, possible modification, and localization/trafficking of the decay fragments, and 2) the regulation of related/adapting genes by the decay fragments.  For more detailed information please see our recent publications: (https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-019-1064-z; https://www.nature.com/articles/nature14580; https://elifesciences.org/articles/50014; https://www.embopress.org/doi/full/10.1038/s44319-025-00427-3; https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-08539-x)

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
A Ph.D. in biology, biochemistry, genetics or a similar subject with a focus on molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry and/or genetics.  Knowledge of RNA and/or protein biochemistry and molecular biology is a plus. 

ABOUT THE EMPLOYER:
The Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research in Bad Nauheim is an interdisciplinary research institution with international flair.  Our researchers have the opportunity to work on various model systems by making use of the latest cutting-edge technologies.  Researchers are supported by state-of-the-art core facilities which offer services in next generation sequencing, proteomics, bioinformatics, cytometry, microscopy, and small animal imaging.

The Max Planck Society strives for gender and diversity equality; we welcome applications from all backgrounds.  Furthermore, the Max Planck Society is committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from such qualified individuals.

HOW TO APPLY:
For further information, please contact Prof. Didier Stainier ([email protected]).

To apply, please submit the names and contact information for 2-3 references, a CV, and a short statement (2 pages max.) of your research experience and interests to [email protected]

https://www.mpi-hlr.de/46552/developmental-genetics