Postdoctoral research position in Structural Biology of Asymmetric Cell Division
A postdoctoral research position is available in the group of Marina Mapelli at the European Institute of Oncology in Milano (http://www.ifom-ieo-campus.it/research/mapelli.php). The main interest of the group focuses on the molecular mechanisms underlying asymmetric cell divisions, with emphasis on the role of mitotic spindle coupling to cortical polarity. The correct placement of the mitotic spindle during mitosis is fundamental to determine the relative position of daughter cells. Furthermore, in several stem cell systems the orientation of the spindle ensures that only one of the two daughters retains niche contacts and stem-like properties. The conserved NuMA/LGN/Gαi pathway is responsible for anchoring astral microtubules to specific cortical sites in order to orient the mitotic spindle correctly. In the past years, we started characterizing the biochemical properties and the organizational principles of the NuMA/LGN/Gαi network from purified components (Culurgioni et al. 2011 PNAS, Mapelli et al. 2012 Open Biol.). In particular we addressed the issues of 1) how these force generating machines are clustered at restricted cortical sites; 2) how they are coordinated with the polarity proteins Par3/Par6/aPKC. The general goal of the project is the structural characterization of protein complexes involved in mitotic spindle placement. The strategy to achieve this aim will combine X-ray crystallography, biochemistry, and cell biology. I am seeking a talented and enthusiastic postdoctoral fellow who enjoys working as part of a collaborative and multidisciplinary team. The ideal candidate should have a PhD in protein structure, biochemistry or equivalent qualification, and extensive experience in expression and characterization of multi-subunit protein complexes. Knowledge of protein crystallography will be advantageous. The Structural Biology Department of the IFOM-IEO Campus is equipped with the state-of-the-art apparatus for protein purification, characterization and crystallization, including a nanodrop crystallization robot and an automated imaging system, and has good access to the synchrotron beamlines. Successful candidates will benefit from a stimulating and collaborative environment within the Campus. Candidates will be encouraged to apply to the Marie Curie co-founded SIPOD postdoc program (http://www.semm.it/PostDoc.php). The position is available from February 2013, with a salary of 30,000-36,000 euro per annum. Postdoc applicants should send their enquiries by e-mail to Marina Mapelli (marina.mape...@ieo.eu). They should also ask two referees to send letters of recommendation at the same electronic address. With kind regards, Marina --- Marina Mapelli, PhD Department of Experimental Oncology European Institute of Oncology Via Adamello 16, 20139 Milan, Italy tel: +39-02-94375018 email: marina.mape...@ieo.eu web: http://www.ifom-ieo-campus.it/research/mapelli.php ---
