PhD project in synthetic organic chemistry and chemical biology / Synthesis of isotope labelled probes and their application in the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans

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Job-ID 331883

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Offer DescriptionThe objective of this PhD research project is the multistep total synthesis of several stable isotope labelled molecular probes and their application in incorporation experiments in order to elucidate biosynthetic pathways in the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans.The nematode C. elegans represents one of the best understood multicellular organisms in science, but its chemistry and secondary metabolism has remained largely enigmatic. Ongoing research at the laboratory for bioanalytical chemistry aims to decipher the metabolic pathways that connects fatty acid metabolism with the biosynthesis of highly conserved glycolipids, which act as signaling molecules and regulate nematode development and behavior.In order to unambiguously establish precursor-product relationships in nematode glycolipid biosynthesis, the candidate will synthesize a diversity of stable isotope labelled potential precursors and subsequently apply them in incorporation experiments using C. elegans wildtype and mutants defective in specific steps of the biosynthetic pathway. Incorporation will be established using state of the art HRMS and NMR techniques.This project will combine synthetic organic chemistry, isotope incorporation experiments, comparative metabolomics, reverse genetics, and biosynthetic pathway elucidation. In addition, the PhD candidate will have the opportunity to contribute to other research projects at the laboratory for bioanalytical chemistry.Funding category: Financement public/privéFunding available for 4 years (positions renewable each year). Financing for a fifth year is possible pending approval by the university.PHD title: Doctorat en ChimiePHD Country: SuisseWhere to apply WebsiteRequirementsSpecific RequirementsApplicants require a MSc degree in Organic Chemistry, Natural Products Chemistry, Chemical Biology, Life Sciences, or a closely related field.Demonstrated practical experience in the multistep synthesis of organic molecules (preferable natural products), including work with a Schlenk line, column chromatography, and structure analysis by NMR and MS techniques is essential.Furthermore, basic knowledge of secondary metabolism and molecular biology is required for PhD candidates to quickly develop a solid understanding of biosynthetic pathways (especially fatty acid biosynthesis and β-oxidation) and their elucidation via isotope labelling strategies, comparative metabolomics, and reverse genetics.Practical experience in sterile culture techniques for microbiology & nematology work is an advantage, but also possible to learn on the job.Very good command of English (reading, writing, speaking) is required. Basic knowledge of French for teaching duties is highly desirable.Successful PhD candidates are expected to design, execute, and analyze high-quality experiments, show self-motivation in order to independently develop their own research projects and accumulate meaningful and significant results, while being available to collaborate with team members and external collaborators and contribute to other research projects with their expertise and skills.Additional InformationWork Location(s)Number of offers available 1 Company/Institute University of Neuchâtel Country Switzerland GeofieldSTATUS: EXPIREDShare this page