Wanted for April 1st 2025, at the Center for Infectious Diseases for the Parasitology department.
Investigating mechanisms of chromosome segregation during the exit of male Plasmodium gametes.
Malaria is a devastating infectious disease that kills more than half a million people per year. It is caused by the eukaryotic, single-celled parasite Plasmodium, which infects mosquitoes to spread from host to host. At the Hentzschel lab, we investigate the biology of early mosquito infection, particularly the formation of male gametes. This is a fascinating and extremely fast process that generates eight flagellated gametes from a precursor cell within only fifteen minutes (see examples of forming gametes on the right). Yet, the molecular mechanisms are not well understood, and how the parasite organises the segregation of eight genomes from a single nucleus into individual gametes remains elusive. We have previously identified an unusual protein complex that mediates DNA segregation during male gamete formation. We now want to understand the molecular and cellular processes underlying this phenotype, which might help to develop transmission-blocking drugs in the future.
What we offer
During your fully funded PhD project (3 years, 65 %) starting in April 2025, you will use state-of-the-art molecular biology, genetic engineering, structural biology and quantitative live-cell microscopy to investigate the activation, assembly and structure of the non-canonical Arp2/3 protein complex in the malaria parasite. The project is funded by an ERC Starting Grant and based on previous work of the lab (https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-4479771/v1). You will join a dynamic group with plenty of opportunities to bring in your own ideas. You can expect a supportive environment and close mentoring with the aim to comprehensively expand your scientific and professional skills, enabling you to develop into an independent researcher. There will be opportunities to participate in international meetings to extend your scientific network and visibility in the field. Our lab is part of the Center for Infectious Diseases, located in the new CIID building on the Neuenheimer Feld Campus in Heidelberg, where you will have access to all necessary facilities and equipment. All PhD students at Heidelberg University are enrolled in graduate school offering many career development opportunities.
Characterisation of rodent Plasmodium berghei parasites in mouse and mosquito vectors
Cultivation of human-infecting Plasmodium falciparum parasites in cell culture (S2)
Generation and characterisation of transgenic berghei and P. falciparum lines
State-of-the-art widefield, confocal and super-resolution microscopy
Preparation of scientific presentations and manuscripts for publication
Curiosity, passion and enthusiasm for unusual cell biology
Master’s degree (or equivalent) in molecular biology or related disciplines
Self-driven motivation, initiative and willingness to drive the project forward
Ability to work both independently as well as collaboratively in a team
Good communication skills in English (speaking, reading, writing)
Willingness to work with experimental mouse models
Prior experience with molecular biology essential, experience with Plasmodium desirable
Goal-oriented, individual training and development opportunities (e.g. career courses offered by graduate school HBIGS)
Working with the latest techniques / technical equipment state-of-the-art confocal and super-resolution microscopy
Possibility to publish scientifically is offered and supported
Regular team meetings
Partial) project management / project responsibility possible if suitable
Participation in national or international conference and collaboration
Collectively agreed remuneration, attractive company pension scheme (VBL)
30 days vacation
Sustainable travel: job ticket
Family-friendly working environment: cooperative arrangements for childcare, subsidy for child vacation care, advice for employees with relatives in need of care
Wide range of health, prevention and sports offers