SCIENCE-JOBS-DE
Mechanism and physiological function of RNA helicases
Subjects: Biology, Chemistry, Physics
Theme: Thesis: Mechanism and physiological function of RNA helicases
Contact: Prof. Dagmar monastery Meier
Reply to: dagmar.klostermeier @ ni-muenster.de
Institution: Institute of Physical Chemistry
Location: 48149 Muenster, Corrensstr.
at the University of Münster, Institute for Physical Chemistry, in the group of Prof. Dr. Dagmar Klostermeier for one year with a possible extension to three years in total. At the moment the regular working hours are 19 hours 55 minutes per week.
RNA helicases catalyze the ATP-dependent unwinding of RNA duplexes. DEAD box proteins are the largest RNA helicase family. They undergo a nucleotide-driven conformational cycle that is coupled to their ATP hydrolysis and RNA unwinding activities (Theissen et al., PNAS 105(2), 548–553, Andreou & Klostermeier, Methods Enzymol. 511:75-109).
The DEAD-box helicase Hera from Thermus thermophilus is a special DEAD-box protein that catalyzes the ATP-dependent RNA unwinding as a dimer (Klostermeier, D. Biopolymers 99(12):1137-46). Its physiological function is unknown. This project aims at understanding the mechanism and physiological function of the RNA helicase Hera. To answer these questions, RNA- and protein biochemistry as well as biophysical approaches will be used in combination. The group has a state-of the art molecular biology, biochemistry and biophysics laboratories plus confocal and total internal reflection single molecule microscopes.
Applicants have a master degree or diploma in biology, biochemistry, biophysics or a related field, and have a genuine interest in research and experimental enthusiasm. Previous experience in protein and RNA biochemistry, molecular biology and biochemical methods is required. Experience in optical spectroscopy and single molecule microscopy is advantageous.
The University of Muenster is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to increasing the proportion of women academics. Consequently, we actively encourage applications by women. Female candidates with equivalent qualifications and academic achievements will be preferentially considered within the framework of the legal possibilities.We also welcome applications from candidates with severe disabilities. Disabled candidates with equivalent qualifications will be preferentially considered.
If you want to work in a stimulating environment as part of an international and interdisciplinary team, please send your application including CV, list of publications, letter of motivation, and two references by March 31 2014 to
Prof. Dr. Dagmar Klostermeier
University of Muenster
Institute for Physical Chemistry
Corrensstr. 28/30
48149 Münster
or to dagmar.klostermeier@uni-muenster.de.
For inquiries, please contact dagmar.klostermeier@uni-muenster.de.
Start Date: 14 February 2014
estimated duration: 3 years
Payment: 13 TV-L, 50%