PhD Position in Microbiology - Streptococcus pneumoniae cell cycle regulation de Duve Institute[...]

KU Leuven; Strasbourg; Sur place; EUR 25 000 - 35 000; Plein temps

Résumé du poste

An innovative research opportunity awaits a dedicated PhD candidate eager to delve into the fascinating world of cell cycle regulation in a significant human pathogen. This position offers a chance to engage in cutting-edge research using advanced techniques like CRISPRi-seq and fluorescence microscopy. You will develop essential skills in scientific communication and teamwork while contributing to vital research aimed at combating antibiotic resistance. Join a dynamic team and embark on a journey to become an expert in molecular cell biology, with the potential to influence future scientific advancements.

Prestations

ERC Starting Grant funding

Opportunity to apply for personal PhD fellowships

Qualifications

• Master's degree in biological sciences or related disciplines required.
• Experience in bacteriology and molecular cell biology is a plus.

Responsabilités

• Conduct research on cell cycle regulation in Streptococcus pneumoniae.
• Utilize genetic and molecular tools for experimental techniques.

Connaissances

Molecular Biology

Genetic Engineering

Fluorescence Microscopy

Flow Cytometry

Bacteriology

Data Analysis

Oral Communication

Written Communication

Formation

Master's degree in Biological Sciences

Master's degree in Biomedical Sciences

Master's degree in Biochemistry

Master's degree in Bioscience Engineering

Outils

CRISPRi-seq

PCR

Cell Sorting

Description du poste

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The Université catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain) is internationally recognized for research and teaching quality in many different fields of expert...

Our research group, headed by prof. Liselot Dewachter, is part of the de Duve Institute (UCLouvain, campus Woluwe, Brussels, Belgium).In our lab, we focus on the major human pathogen Streptococcus pneumoniae. We use genetics, molecular biology and microscopy to study processes that are fundamental for S. pneumoniae growth. By doing so, we hope to discover novel ways to kill this important pathogen and thereby help fight the ever-growing problem of antibiotic resistance.

Your project

We are looking for a PhD candidate to work on our ERC-funded project focusing on cell cycle regulation in the Gram-positive bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae. We want to make use of the genetic and molecular tools that are available for S. pneumoniae to study how this bacterium regulates different cell cycle processes (e.g. DNA replication, chromosome segregation, cell division). More specifically, this project is aimed at unraveling how these different processes are coordinated in response to each other so that e.g. this bacterium divides exactly once per DNA replication round. To do so, you will use genome-wide CRISPRi-seq screens combined with fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) to select mutants of interest. Based on the selected mutants, you will determine molecular mechanisms of cell cycle regulation.

In this project you will have the chance to:

• Gain experience in a wide variety of experimental techniques, including basic microbiology assays (growth curves, CFUs, etc.), genetic engineering (PCR, transformation, etc.), fluorescence microscopy, flow cytometry and cell sorting, etc
• Apply genome-wide screening approaches (CRISPRi-seq) and associated data analysis pipelines
• Develop skills in oral scientific communication by regularly presenting your work at lab meetings, and in written communication by writing your PhD thesis and associated research papers
• Become a skilled and independent researcher while also working within a team

Your qualifications and skills

• You hold a Master's degree in biological sciences, biomedical sciences, biochemistry, bioscience engineering or related disciplines or you will obtain such a Master's degree in 2025.
• You are highly motivated to do scientific research and become an expert in your field
• You show a deep interest in bacteriology and molecular cell biology. Previous experience in these research areas is considered a plus
• You have a high proficiency in English, both written and orally

What we offer

This 4-year PhD position is funded by an ERC Starting Grant. However, the selected PhD candidate will still be encouraged to apply for personal PhD fellowships.

Interested?

Applicants should send their CV and motivation letter to Prof. Liselot Dewachter by email:[e-mail] . Candidates selected for an interview will be notified by Aug 1, 2025.

The Université catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain) is internationally recognized for research and teaching quality in many different fields of expert...