We are seeking a highly motivated and talented scientist in the field  of cellular microbiology. In particular we are interested in the investigation of the molecular mechanism of how H. pylori promotes cellular survival and migration while preventing apoptosis. In our  previous work, we identified a crucially important role of the non-receptor tyrosine kinase c-Abl in H. pylori-infected gastric  epithelial cells in these processes, but the molecular mechanisms of  this novel cross-talk are still unknown. Since c-Abl already  represents an attractive target molecule in drug intervention in certain neoplasia, increasing knowledge of c-Abl signaling obtained from this proposed project may also uncover novel strategies in  therapeutic intervention of H. pylori-related diseases.

Recent publications: Oncogene, 2007, 26: 3462-3472; J Clin Invest,

 2012, 122: 1553-1566

Candidates:

•       should have a strong background in cell biology, and either expertise in infection biology, or in molecular aspects of signal transduction

•       are expected to be independent, scientific-orientated and self-motivated

•       must have received their Ph.D. within the last five years with  a proven publication record with at least one first author paper

•       have excellent communication and interpersonal skills

•       are competitive at international level

•       collaborate with internal and external collaborators and support other group members

•       Employ cutting-edge technologies and standard molecular  biology tools in combination with infection biology to study kinase signaling during pathogen-host interaction

We hold a state-of-the art laboratory at the Paris-Lodron University  of Salzburg in Austria, a beautiful place at the northern boundary of  the Alps. The Department of Molecular Biology provides broad possibilities for interaction and support. Our group is a member of  the international "PhD program ICA" (University of Salzburg/FWF) and a member of the priority program "Bioscience and Health" (University of Salzburg).

Please send your CV and letter of interest to Silja Wessler  (silja.wessler@sbg.ac.at). The duration of the position is two years  with the possibility of extension.

Closing date: August 20, 2012