Analysis of transdifferentiation in vivo in C. elegans
A postdoctoral position is available in the Cell and Developmental Biology Department, at the IGBMC, Strasbourg, France. This Research Institute (www.igbmc.fr) provides access to state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant research environment.
The focus of our lab is to elucidate the cellular interactions and molecular mechanisms underlying transdifferentiation, the process by which a differentiated cell can change its identity. We have characterised a transdifferentiation event in C. elegans during which a rectal epithelial cell becomes a motor-neuron (Jarriault et al. PNAS 2008) and have initiated genetic screens that allowed us to identify genes affecting this process. Our aim is to define how the competence to transdifferentiate is established, how the transdifferentiation process is initiated and what the intermediate (dedifferentiated ?) cellular steps involved are. Understanding transdifferentiation has important implications ranging from organ regeneration to cancer, and the nematode C. elegans is an ideal experimental model as it allows comprehensive screens at a single cell level. We routinely use genetic, molecular and cellular techniques.
The successful candidate should be highly motivated and experienced in the use of molecular biology and genetic techniques. Experience in working with C. elegans is a plus.
Please send applications (including a motivation cover letter, a CV, a description of research experience and 2-3 references letters) to:
Sophie JARRIAULT, PhD - e-mail: sophie@igbmc.fr
Group Leader
IGBMC
1 rue Laurent Fries, BP 10142
67404 Illkirch Cedex, CU STRASBOURG
FRANCE
http://www.igbmc.fr/recherche/Dep_BCD/Eq_SJarr/index.html