Doctoral Candidate Positions
MITGEST is looking for talented and motivated candidates with the skills, knowledge and enthusiasm to help the network make significant research breakthroughs. Doctoral Candidates (DCs) will enrol in PhD degree programmes and be employed for 36 months in a network composed of 8 beneficiaries and 11 associated partners from 8 European countries and Israel.
Open Positions
In this project, we will investigate and elucidate the molecular mechanisms, protein partners and kinetics of mitochondrial messenger RNAs (mt-mRNA) degradation processes that are currently unknown. With proteomics-based approaches based on mass spectrometry, we will identify proteins associated with mitochondrial APE1 and damaged mt-mRNAs. We will then investigate their roles and functions by applying biochemical methods. Read full project description here.
Host institution: Institute of Hematology and Transfusion Medicine, Department of Experimental Hematology, Warsaw, Poland.
Supervisor: Dr. Carlo Vascotto
Co-Supervisors: Dr. Roman Szczesny, Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Science, Warsaw, Poland (Academic); Dr. Angel Picher, 4basebio, (Industrial).
Secondments: This project is carried out in strong collaboration with the following groups, and visits to their laboratories are expected during the project:
- Dr. Roman Szczesny, Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Science, Warsaw, Poland;
- Prof. Antonella Spinazzola, University College London, London, UK;
- Dr. Angel Picher, 4basebio Cambridge, UK.
Disclaimer: The location of this position is subject to the successful signing of the amendment to the EU Grant Agreement and changes to Institute of Hematology and Transfusion Medicine, Department of Experimental Hematology, Warsaw, Poland.
In this project, we will identify the metabolic pathways activated during mitochondria-nucleus feedback. We will do so by using different types of stimuli, commonly encountered during tumorigenesis and tumour progression (e.g., nutrient alteration, oxygen levels, induction of oxidative stress). With proteomics and genomics approaches, followed by bioinformatics analysis, we will identify key proteins and their PTMs that occur as a consequence of mitochondrial metabolic alteration. Read full project description here.
Host institution: Institute of Hematology and Transfusion Medicine, Department of Experimental Hematology, Warsaw, Poland.
Supervisor: Dr. Carlo Vascotto
Co-Supervisors: Prof. Ian Holt, Biodonostia Health Research Institute, Neurosciences department, San Sebastián, Spain, (Academic); Dr. Noa Sher, Minovia Therapeutics LTD, Haifa, Israel (Industrial).
Secondments: This project is carried out in strong collaboration with the following groups, and visits to their laboratories are expected during the project:
- Dr. Barbara Uszczynska-Ratajczak, Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Science, Warsaw, Poland;
- Prof. Ian Holt, Biodonostia Health Research Institute, San Sebastián, Spain;
- Dr. Noa Sher, Minovia Therapeutics LTD, Haifa, Israel.
Disclaimer: The location of this position is subject to the successful signing of the amendment to the EU Grant Agreement and changes to Institute of Hematology and Transfusion Medicine, Department of Experimental Hematology, Warsaw, Poland.
In this project, we will work on optimising the analysis of nascent mtRNA synthesis, processing, and degradation, as well as on the identification and characterisation of the proteins involved in the different steps of mtRNA metabolism. Thanks to technological advances offered by the click chemistry approach and RNAseq technique, we will systematically analyse different processes of nascent mtRNA. We will further combine click chemistry labelled nascent RNA with a mitochondrial-targeted RNA-binding proteome isolation method and mass spectrometry to identify and establish roles for early and late protein partners in mtRNA homeostasis. Read full project description here.
Host institution: Radboud Center for Mitochondrial Medicine, Department of Paediatrics, Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
Supervisor: Dr. Hans Spelbrink
Co-Supervisors: Dr. Roman Szczesny, Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Science, Warsaw, Poland (Academic); Dr. Thomas Frischmuth, baseclick GmbH, Neuried, Germany (Industrial).
Secondments: This project is carried out in strong collaboration with the following groups, and visits to their laboratories are expected during the project:
- Dr. Thomas Frischmuth, baseclick GmbH, Neuried, Germany;
- Dr. Roman Szczesny, Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Science, Warsaw, Poland.
With this project, we will test and optimise complexome methodology for the analysis of the anticipated larger protein-RNA, protein-DNA and possibly protein-RNA-mtDNA complexes. The complexome analysis with the use of native gel systems (such as Blue Native polyacrylamide gels) has proven very powerful in studying the assembly of mitochondrial protein complexes. Through inhibition-release approaches to temporarily deplete mitochondrial RNA or known nuclear factors involved in RNA biology we will study the temporal formation of these complexes and identify the (known and novel) protein factors involved at each step. Read full project description here.
Host institution: Radboud Center for Mitochondrial Medicine, Department of Paediatrics, Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
Supervisor: Dr. Hans Spelbrink
Co-Supervisors: Dr. Joanna Rorbach, Karolinska Institute, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm, Sweden (Academic); Dr. William Leenders, Predica Diagnostics B.V., Nijmegen, the Netherlands (Industrial).
Secondments: This project is carried out in strong collaboration with the following groups, and visits to their laboratories are expected during the project:
- Dr. Joanna Rorbach, Karolinska Institute, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm, Sweden
- Dr. William Leenders, Predica Diagnostics B.V., Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
In this project, we aim to identify new factors involved in mt-ncRNA regulation. We also aim to explore the role of PTMs in the regulation of mitochondrial antisense transcripts surveillance mechanisms. To this end, we will perform a targeted siRNA screening test to identify genes whose silencing results in the upregulation of mitochondrial antisense transcripts. We will also conduct a comprehensive mass spectrometry-based analysis of PTMs present in proteins involved in mtRNA metabolism. Subsequently, we will investigate the functional importance of identified PTMs. The proposed research project will allow to build a broader picture of proteins involved in the surveillance of mitochondrial antisense RNAs. We will also learn about potential PTMs-dependent regulation of mt-ncRNA. Read full project description here.
Host institution: Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Science, Warsaw, Poland.
Supervisor: Dr. Roman Szczesny
Co-Supervisors: Dr. Carlo Vascotto, Institute of Hematology and Transfusion Medicine, Department of Experimental Hematology, Warsaw, Poland (Academic); Dr. Thomas Frischmuth, baseclick GmbH, Neuried, Germany (Industrial).
Secondments: This project is carried out in strong collaboration with the following groups, and visits to their laboratories are expected during the project:
- Dr. Carlo Vascotto, Institute of Hematology and Transfusion Medicine, Department of Experimental Hematology, Warsaw, Poland.
- Dr. Thomas Frischmuth, baseclick GmbH, Neuried, Germany.
Disclaimer: The location of this secondment is subject to the successful signing of the amendment to the EU Grant Agreement and changes to Institute of Hematology and Transfusion Medicine, Department of Experimental Hematology, Warsaw, Poland.
In this project, we will investigate ribosome-associated protein quality control mechanisms and identify mitoribosome surveillance pathways. We aim to characterise both biochemically and structurally the components of these rescue pathways. Through genetic screening, quantitative proteomics and cryoEM we will be able to understand: how is the stalled mitoribosome recognised, how is mitoribosome splitting triggered and what are the physiological consequences of disruption of these processes. Read full project description here.
Host institution: Karolinska Institute, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm, Sweden.
Supervisor: Dr. Joanna Rorbach
Co-Supervisors: Prof. Antonella Spinazzola, University College London, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, United Kingdom (Academic); Dr. Maurice Hendriks, Lumicks, Amsterdam, the Netherlands (Industrial).
Secondments: This project is carried out in strong collaboration with the following groups, and visits to their laboratories are expected during the project:
- Prof. Antonella Spinazzola, University College London, London, United Kingdom;
- Dr. Noa Sher, Minovia Therapeutics LTD, Haifa, Israel.
In this project, we will investigate the effect of nutrients on replication, transcription and translation in the mitochondria of human fibroblasts under different conditions. To determine how nutrient availability affects the course of the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) disease, we will test several diets and assess their effect on disease progression at the macro and molecular level, the latter including analysis of mtDNA replication and expression via DNA, RNA and protein labelling. The new findings will be used to develop and refine methods to manipulate energy metabolism to alleviate mitochondrial diseases in cell and animal models in advance of experimental medicine studies. Read full project description here.
Host institution: Biodonostia Health Research Institute, Neurosciences department, San Sebastián, Spain.
Supervisor: Prof. Ian Holt
Co-Supervisors: Prof. Antonella Spinazzola, University College London, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, United Kingdom (Academic); Dr. Thomas Frischmuth, baseclick GmbH, Neuried, Germany (Industrial).
Secondments: This project is carried out in strong collaboration with the following groups, and visits to their laboratories are expected during the project:
- Dr. Thomas Frischmuth, baseclick GmbH, Neuried, Germany;
- Prof. Antonella Spinazzola, University College London, London, United Kingdom;
- Dr. Hans Spelbrink, Radboud Center for Mitochondrial Medicine, Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
In this project, we will study a mouse model of nucleotide insufficiency that summarises several aspects of the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) maintenance disorders including tissue-specific differences in mtDNA abnormalities and manifests multi-organ pathology characteristic of common neuro-metabolic disorders. We will apply a wide range of molecular biology techniques and will analyse and integrate “omics” data, coupled with in vivo treatments of mtDNA disease models. Read full project description here.
Host institution: University College London, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, United Kingdom.
Supervisor: Prof. Antonella Spinazzola
Co-Supervisors: Dr. Roman Szczesny, Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Science, Warsaw, Poland (Academic); Dr. Noa Sher, Minovia Therapeutics LTD, Haifa, Israel.
Secondments: This project is carried out in strong collaboration with the following groups, and visits to their laboratories are expected during the project:
- Dr. Roman Szczesny, Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Science, Warsaw, Poland;
- Dr. Noa Sher, Minovia Therapeutics LTD, Haifa, Israel.
Disclaimer: This position will be funded by UK Research and Innovation within the framework of the Horizon Europe guarantee funding. Researchers recruited through this scheme will not be allowed to carry the title of MSCA fellow but will otherwise participate in all network activities.
In this project, using Baseclick’s patented click chemistry technology in association with additional conjugation technology, we will explore the targeting of RNA/oligonucleotides to the mitochondrial matrix. Furthermore, we will also pursue conjugation of mitochondria-targeting peptide sequences from nuclear genes encoding mitochondrial proteins to deliver oligonucleotides to the mitochondrial matrix. These mitochondria targeting agents will be combined with known cellular targeting agents, such as lipid nanoparticles or receptor-specific ligands, and will be tested in cellular contexts for the ability of targeting oligonucleotides to the mitochondrial matrix. Read full project description here.
Host institution: baseclick GmbH, Neuried, Germany.
Supervisor: Dr. Thomas Frischmuth
Co-Supervisors: Dr. Carlo Vascotto, Institute of Hematology and Transfusion Medicine, Department of Experimental Hematology, Warsaw, Poland (Academic); Dr. Hans Spelbrink, Radboud Center of Mitochondrial Medicine, Department of Paediatrics, Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
Secondments: This project is carried out in strong collaboration with the following groups, and visits to their laboratories are expected during the project:
- Dr. Carlo Vascotto, Institute of Hematology and Transfusion Medicine, Department of Experimental Hematology, Warsaw, Poland.
- Dr. Hans Spelbrink, Radboud Center for Mitochondrial Medicine, Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
Disclaimer: The location of this secondment is subject to the successful signing of the amendment to the EU Grant Agreement and changes to Institute of Hematology and Transfusion Medicine, Department of Experimental Hematology, Warsaw, Poland.
In this project, we will investigate the molecular mechanisms of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) disorders and the cellular and metabolic response to mitochondrial dysfunction in order to identify therapies. Specifically, we will characterise mitochondrial dysfunction of iPCS cells derived from patient samples and of B lymphocytes cell lines with known mitochondrial mutation (LCL cells). We will also determine the impact of nutrient regimes on energy production as well as identify and compare the functionality of mitochondrial control mechanisms in mtDNA disease patients vs healthy subjects for better understanding mtDNA dynamics. Read full project description here.
Host institution: Minovia Therapeutics LTD, Haifa, Israel.
Supervisor: Dr. Noa Sher
Co-Supervisors: Dr. Arnon Henn, Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel (Academic); Prof. Antonella Spinazzola, University College London, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, United Kingdom (Academic); Prof. Ian Holt, Biodonostia Health Research Institute, Neurosciences department, San Sebastián, Spain (Academic).
Secondments: This project is carried out in strong collaboration with the following groups, and visits to their laboratories are expected during the project:
- Prof. Antonella Spinazzola, University College London, London, United Kingdom;
- Dr. Arnon Henn, Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel.
- Prof. Ian Holt, Biodonostia Health Research Institute, San Sebastián, Spain.
In this project, we will develop and employ new labelling procedures to characterise the impact of changes in metabolite availability and nucleic acid precursors to organ pathophysiology and the process of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) replication, using mouse models of mtDNA disorders. For this, we will use advanced imaging techniques, such as PET/MRI. Read full project description here.
Host institution: Biodonostia Health Research Institute, Neurosciences department, San Sebastián, Spain.
Supervisor: Prof. Ian Holt
Co-Supervisors: Prof. Antonella Spinazzola, University College London, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, United Kingdom (Academic); Dr. Thomas Frischmuth, baseclick GmbH, Neuried, Germany (Industrial).
Secondments: This project is carried out in strong collaboration with the following groups, and visits to their laboratories are expected during the project:
- Prof. Antonella Spinazzola, University College London, London, United Kingdom;
- Dr. Thomas Frischmuth, baseclick GmbH, Neuried, Germany;
What MITGEST will offer
- A thorough scientific education in the frame of a doctoral training program.
- The possibility to participate in specific international courses, workshops and conferences.
- Strong involvement in a European research project with high international visibility.
- The possibility to perform research visits to internationally renowned research labs in Europe.
- A prestigious three-year MSCA Fellowship.
Who can apply
- Applicants can be of any nationality.
- Applicants must hold a MSc or equivalent in the field required for the corresponding vacancy.
- Applicants must be eligible to enrol on a PhD programme at the host institution (or at a designated university in case the host institution is a non-academic organisation).
- Applicants must have the necessary academic skills and background to make the success of a doctoral degree.
- MSCA Mobility Rule: researchers must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in the country of the host organisation for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately before the recruitment date. Compulsory national service, short stays such as holidays, and time spent as part of a procedure for obtaining refugee status are not taken into account.
Additionally, DC applicants must fulfill the local requirements of the recruiting institutions.
Who we are looking for
- MSc, MRes, MEng, or equivalent in Life Science (Biology, Biochemistry, Biophysics, etc.), Bioengineering, Physics or a related discipline.
- Research experience, in particular in cellular and molecular biology techniques.
- Interested to work in the field of mitochondrial DNA and its gene expression.
- Appreciation for interdisciplinary work and proactive drive to collaborate across disciplines.
- Proficient in the English language.
How to apply
- Download the “Application form” and fill in the required information.
- Compile your documents in one pdf file, following the order: 1) application form, 2) maximum two-page motivation letter, 3) CV, 4) copies of transcripts of any obtained degrees and contact details of 5) two possible referees.
- The application must be written in English.
- Submit all the above documents via e-mail as a single pdf file to mitgest.eu@gmail.com.
- As the subject of your email, please use MITGEST application – your name.
- The individual DC projects are set to start between 01.04.2023 and 30.06.2023.
Download documents
Download the application form, open it with a pdf reader and fill in the required information in the boxes or choose from “drop-down”.
Applications are acccepted by 15 November 2022. You still have
Selection process
Our selection procedure for DCs is open, transparent, merit-based and in line with the Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers.
- After closing the application on 15.11.2022, we will review all documents within two weeks. The timeframe can change in individual cases.
- In the next steps of the recruitment process, we will contact chosen candidates and invite them for an interview.
- The host institution will inform successful candidates within a few weeks after the interview about the outcome.
- The successful candidate will receive a financial package including mobility and family allowance (if applicable) and will be employed according to the rules for Early Stage Researchers in and Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions Doctoral Network (DN) and the general regulations of each host institution.
- The MSCA-DN will cover three years of full-time research. Final contract length and extension options depend on the host institution.
Contact
Please send your full application to mitgest.eu@gmail.com. In case of any inquiries about open positions and recruitment, please contact us via this email.
For any other inquiries, please use info@mitgest.eu.
