Fully funded PhD position: Functional analysis of chromatin regulators during cell differentiation in choanoflagellates.

Fully funded PhD position: Functional analysis of chromatin regulators during cell differentiation in choanoflagellates.

Who we are:  The positions will be in the lab of James Gahan (gahanlab.com) at the Centre for Chromosome Biology (www.chromosome.ie), University of Galway, Ireland. The lab opens in April 2024 with funding from an ERC Starting Grant and Wellcome trust.

What we do: The group is broadly interested in how changes in genome regulation contributed to the emergence of animals. To fill this fundamental gap, the group will reconstruct the origin and evolution of cell-type-specific gene expression by investigating the gene-regulatory mechanisms that drive life history transitions in the closest living relatives of animals, the choanoflagellates. We will specifically use Salpingoeca rosetta as a model and integrate omics approaches, microscopy and newly developed transgenesis and genome-editing tools to understand the function of chromatin regulators in this process.

The PhD candidate will specifically utilize CRISPR-Cas9 mediated mutagenesis in combination with genome-wide profiling techniques, microscopy and molecular/biochemical methodologies to understand the role of specific histone modifying enzymes in S. rosetta (e.g., KMT2 methyltransferases).

The ideal candidate will have, or who expect to receive, a 1st class Honours (or a high 2.1) degree in a relevant discipline. Candidates with an MSc in relevant topics and/or experience in molecular biology (molecular cloning, CRSIPR-Cas9 mediated mutagenesis etc.) are especially encouraged to apply although motivated candidates from any discipline will be considered.

The position is available from May 1^st, 2024, but would ideally not be later that September 2024.

To apply please email your CV along with a cover letter explaining your motivations and the contact details of two referees to James Gahan (james.gahan@bioch.ox.ac.uk). Informal enquiries are very welcome. The positions will stay open until filled.

PhD_GahanLab