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Location

Hannover | Germany

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Job description

Institute of Virology

Two post-doctoral scientist positions (f/d/m)

in herpes virology at the Institute of Virology of Hannover Medical School (MHH)

Applications are invited for two postdoctoral positions for 5 years funded by the Volkswagen foundation to study the regulation of herpesvirus latency and reactivation of HSV-1, HCMV and VZV using advanced single-cell RNA-seq and CRISPR/Cas9 approaches in the Dölken lab at the MHH in Hannover, Germany, from June 2024.

Activities and responsibilities
The Dölken lab () focuses on host cell modulation and immune evasion by HSV-1, HCMV and other herpesviruses 1,2,3,4. In the frame of the ERC Consolidator Award “DecipherHSV” (Deciphering cellular and viral determinants of lytic HSV-1 infection, latency and reactivation), we study host determinants that govern HSV-1 latency and reactivation. Recently, we developed time-resolved single-cell RNA-seq (scSLAM-seq 1) to study rapid changes in transcription for thousands of genes in tens-of-thousands of single cells. Moreover, genome-wide CRISPR/Cas9 screens now enable mechanistic studies of cellular genes in diverse infection processes. The two postdoctoral researchers to be recruited will closely collaborate to apply the great potential of scSLAM-seq and CRISPR/Cas9 screening to a variety of different herpesviruses and experimental models to reveal fundamental new mechanisms that govern infection outcome. Moreover, they will be encouraged to exploit the advanced methodology for new collaborations with MHH researchers. The long-term goal is to identify new cellular and viral targets for novel therapeutic interventions.

Qualification profile
What we are looking for : Candidates should have a strong interest in molecular biology and infection biology. Prior experience with mammalian tissue culture and standard molecular techniques, such as cloning, immunoblotting, RT-PCR and immunofluorescence, is expected. Knowledge regarding herpesvirus biology and immunology, CRISPR/Cas9 or single-cell analyses would be appreciated. The successful candidates will have excellent communication and writing skills and a curiosity-driven attitude.

We offer
Work environment : The Institute of Virology at the MHH is a leading institution in Virology in Germany with a strong focus in herpesvirus research and infections of the immunocompromised host. It provides a structured and collaborative research environment for postdoctoral researchers to start a successful career in science.
The successful candidate will join a young and dynamic international team of dedicated scientists and will benefit from a highly collaborative environment and personalized training and support. We encourage all lab members to get involved in the supervision and guidance of Ph.D., MD, master and bachelor students, in order to build personal teaching and leadership skills. Day-to-day support is provided by experienced postdoctoral researchers and technicians.

The Hannover Biomedical Research School (HBRS) offers career development and a structured course system for PhD candidates. The positions are funded for a period of up to five years (starting as early as June 2024). The salary is commensurate with training and experience according to Collective Agreement for the Public Service of German Federal States TV-L. Female scientists are particularly encouraged to apply. Disabled applicants will be preferentially considered in case of equivalent qualification.

References :
1. scSLAM-seq reveals core features of transcription dynamics in single cells.
Erhard, F.; …; Dölken, L .
Nature 2019 , 571, 419–423, doi:10.1038/s41586-019-1369-y.
2. Selective inhibition of miRNA processing by an herpesvirus-encoded miRNA
Hennig T, … ; Dölken L & Prusty BK
Nature. 2022 , doi: 10.1038/s41586-022-04667-4
3. Integrative functional genomics decodes herpes simplex virus 1.
Whisnant, A.W.; … ; Dölken L .
Nature Communications 2020 , 11, doi:10.1038/s41467-020-15992-5.
4. The HSV-1 ICP22 protein selectively impairs histone repositioning upon Pol II transcription downstream of genes.
Djakovic L, Hennig …, Dölken L .
Nature Communications 2023,14(1):4591. doi: 10.1038/s41467-023-40217-w.

01.06.2024

You have any questions beforehand?

Prof. Dr. Lars Dölken
0511 532 6494

Apply now

Reference number 2310
Apply until: 10.04.2024

The MHH is certified as family-friendly university and stands for the promotion of women in the professional life. Applications of women are particularly welcome. Severely disabled applicants with equal qualifications are given preferential consideration.

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