The Institute of Molecular Biology gGmbH

funded by the Boehringer Ingelheim Foundation

2 Postdoc Positions available
1 Computational Biologist and 1 Molecular Biologist
non-coding RNA & R-loop epigenetics 

The Institute of Molecular Biology gGmbH (IMB) is a Centre of Excellence for Life Sciences, funded by the Boehringer Ingelheim Foundation. It is located within the campus of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany. The Niehrs laboratory studies regulation of DNA methylation, which plays important roles in development & disease. We have recently demonstrated a role for long non-coding RNAs and R-loop DNA:RNA hybrids in DNA methylation (Arab et al. 2014, Mol Cell, (2014) 55: 604-614).  In an ERC-funded project, we now aim to elucidate the mechanisms of DNA demethylation as well as the role played by long non-coding RNAs and R-loops in its regulation. See also  www.imb-mainz.de/research-at-imb/niehrs/research/ Candidates will make use of mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs) to interrogate genome-wide the role of ncRNAs and R-loops in targeting GADD45a and the DNA demethylation machinery in the genome. We will use CRISPR/CAS9 mediated ESC mutants, as well as ChIP-seq, RNA-seq, bisulfite-seq to carry out multi- dimensional data analysis to address: Where in the genome does demethylation occur? What are the molecular determinants in ncRNA & Rloops involved in targeting? What are the cofactors involved? The project will involve strong interaction between the Molecular- and the Computational Biologist.

 You have
• PhD & publications in a relevant field
• Sound experience in R scripting or Python (Computational Biologist)
• Sound experience in molecular biology (Molecular Biologist)
• Familiarity with Omics techniques or –analysis, or with ncRNAs or R-loops is advantageous
• Excellent communication skills and good team spirit with the ability to solve problems independently
• Fluent in English (spoken and written)

We offer
• An international and vibrant working environment
• Competitive salary
• Training opportunities
• Favourable pension scheme

To apply please send a single PDF file containing your cover letter stating research and career interests, CV, scans of your degrees (Germans: including copies of Abitur- & Diplom/Master Zeugnis), and contact details of 2 references to personnel@imb-mainz.de. Informal enquires should be addressed to Prof. Christof Niehrs (c.niehrs@imb-mainz.de).

Starting date: before April 2018

Duration: Initially 3 years; option for further extension

Application Deadline: 31st December 2018
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