Research Positions at UBC Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics

Title: Research Positions

Description:

Funding is available for Research positions in the new Taubert lab (starting March 1st 2009). We are looking for Postdoctoral Fellows, Research Assistants, Graduate Students, Undergraduate Students, Co-op Students, Summer Students, and Volunteers with excellent academic records and training in molecular genetics, molecular biology, and/or biochemistry.

We use the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans and mammalian cell culture to study transcriptional regulatory networks that affect metabolism, stress responses, and developmental processes. The lab employs a multidisciplinary approach that integrates genetics, molecular biology, biochemistry and microscopy.

Our research focuses on the Mediator, a conserved multi-protein machinery that regulates transcription. In C. elegans, the Mediator subunit MDT-15 affects transcription of genes involved in lipid biology and the responses to nutrition-associated stresses such as fasting response, heavy metals, toxins, and oxidative stress. Worms with mutated or depleted mdt-15 display abnormal fat storage, toxin sensitivity, and a shortened life span. Importantly, the MDT-15 homologues in mammals (MED15) and in yeast (Gal11p) also impinge on lipid biology and stress responses, suggesting functional conservation. Due to its regulatory action, MDT-15/MED15 may be involved in human metabolic conditions (obesity, diabetes).

The following projects are currently available:

• Regulation of C. elegans MDT-15

• Genetic dissection of the C. elegans MDT-15 associated regulatory network

• Structure-function analysis of C. elegans MDT-15

• Characterization of functions and targets of human MED15 in tissue culture

We are looking for enthusiastic, self-motivated, independent thinkers with strong interpersonal skills, who share our love for science. Experience with C. elegans is a desired, but not necessary.

All interested applicants are encouraged to send their CVs including references and a statement research interests to: taubert@cmp.ucsf.edu and taubert@cmmt.ubc.ca