Studentische Hilfskraft (m/w/d) mit dem Schwerpunkt Informatik, Teilzeitstelle (10 Stunden pro Woche) - ab 1.10.2024

The role of lysosomal protein degradation in mitochondrial membrane stress responses

Mitochondria play critical roles in cellular metabolism and bioenergetics, serve as main suppliers of ATP, and host diverse anabolic and catabolic pathways. To date, little is known how they integrate into global cellular stress responses and how mitochondrial quality control systems cooperate with other subcellular compartments to sustain cellular homeostasis. Mitochondrial dysfunction can result in apoptosis, if major malfunctions are not corrected, e.g. by selective removal of mitochondrial network portions through autophagy. In contrast to previous assumptions, mitochondrial membrane systems are also connected to the endo-lysosomal system through formation of hitherto ill-defined vesicular structures, termed mitochondria-derived vesicles (MDVs). It is currently completely unknown what defines their content, how MDVs contribute to the mitochondrial stress response, and if lysosomal degradation is indeed their ultimate fate. In this project, a comprehensive interdisciplinary approach will be utilized to address these important questions. Genome-edited mammalian cell lines will be used to study the consequences of mitochondrial stress, like membrane deformation or altered protein assembly on MDV formation and their protein content. These conditions will be complemented by the use of chemical inhibitors of lysosomal or mitochondrial function to discern the effect of distinct pathways on MDV biogenesis and fate. We will use a combination of mass spectrometry-based proteomics, bioinformatics, high-resolution imaging, biochemical protein complex analysis, and metabolic measurements to unravel the contribution of MDVs to mitochondrial homeostasis and global cellular stress response programs. 

The position starts from the 01.09.2024 or as soon as possible in the course of the recently funded DFG priority program SPP2453 and is for a period of three years until 31.08.2027 (current funding period of the project), with the possibility of an extension.

Your profile:

• Master’s degree in (molecular/cell) biology, biochemistry, or a similar degree
• Experience in molecular biology techniques such as cell culture, western blot, and  microscopy
• Ideally experience in mass spectrometry-based proteomics
• Strong communication, data visualization, and presentation skills
• Good command of the English and/or German languages
• Team player
• Ability to work independently

We offer:

The group of Dominic Winter is providing extensive knowledge in the field of lysosomal research and mass spectrometry-based proteomics. The successful applicant will be part of our highly international and interdisciplinary research team (www.winter-lab.org) located at the IBMB in Bonn, Germany. The institute is well-equipped with state-of-the-art instrumentation for biochemical and molecular biological experiments, including several mass spectrometers, for which the applicant can gain hands on experience.

• The salary will be according to the German salary scale TV-L E13 (65%)
• Supportive mentoring and a well-equipped laboratory
• Responsible and versatile: a job with a lot of creative freedom in a collegial team
• Flexible for families: flexible working time models, the option of a place in the company day-care center and offers for those returning from parental leave
• Provision for later: company pension scheme
• Clever to work: Possibility of an interest-free loan to buy an e-bike
• Tailor-made education: Subsidized further education and training
• Systematic start: Structured induction
• Healthy at work: Numerous health promotion offers, free membership in UKBfit
• Employer benefits: preferential offers for employees (corporate benefits)

The University of Bonn is committed to diversity and equal opportunity. It is certified as a family-friendly university. It aims to increase the proportion of women in areas where women are under-represented and to promote their careers in particular. It therefore urges women with relevant qualifications to apply. Applications will be handled in accordance with the Landesgleichstellungsgesetz (State Equality Act). Applications from suitable individuals with a certified serious disability and those of equal status are particularly welcome.
 

Applications (by email only) can be sent until the 31.07.2024 to dominic.winter@uni-bonn.de. Please refer to the application number ST-7059.

Dr. Dominic Winter

Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Medical Faculty, University of Bonn

Nussallee 11

53115 Bonn

Tel.: 0228-73-7081

Email: dominic.winter@uni-bonn.de

www.winter-lab.org