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Location

Hannover | Germany

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Job description

Institute of Virology

Ph.D. student (f/x/m) in herpes virology at the Institute of Virology of Hannover Medical School (MHH)

Applications are invited for the position of a Ph.D. student funded by the European Research Council (ERC) to study the regulation of latency and virus reactivation of herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) in the Dölken lab at the Institute of Virology at MHH.
Activities and responsibilities The Dölken lab () focuses on host cell modulation and immune evasion by HSV-1 and other herpesviruses. In the frame of the ERC Consolidator Award “HERPES” (Herpesvirus Effectors of RNA Synthesis, Processing, Export and Stability), we studied how HSV- 1 manipulates the transcriptional machinery during productive infection. Supported by a second ERC Consolidator Award “DecipherHSV” (Deciphering cellular and viral determinants of lytic HSV-1 infection, latency and reactivation), we now aim to unravel new host determinants that govern HSV-1 latency and reactivation. We will combine time-resolved single cell RNA-seq (scSLAM-seq 1) with CRISPR/Cas9 to decipher the cellular and viral determinants of HSV-1 latency and reactivation 2 at single cell level. Furthermore, we will pioneer novel screening approaches using advanced reverse virus genetics to decipher the functional importance of cryptic viral genetic elements 3 and viral manipulation of the host transcriptional machinery 4 in productive infection, latency and reactivation. Our 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 candidate will have excellent communication and writing skills and a curiosity-driven attitude.
We offer
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 PhD students and postdocs 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 MD, MSc and BSc 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 position is initially funded for a period of three years (starting as early as May 2024) but may be extended as required. 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. 01.05.2024

You have any questions beforehand?

Prof. Dr. Lars Dölken
0511 532 6494

Apply now

Reference number 2145
Apply until: 19.02.2024
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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