Postdoctoral Position to develop novel mRNA therapeutics for human diseaseFebruary 3rd, 2025 The Gerst lab at the Weizmann Institute of Science in Israel is seeking a postdoctoral researcher interested in developing a new type of mRNA therapy. Our lab studies different aspects of mRNA localization in yeast and mammalian cells, using yeast genetics, fluorescent microscopy, molecular biology and biochemistry. Our lab discovered that mRNA molecules can transfer between mammalian cells via structures called Tunneling Nanotubes (TNTs). We provided initial characterization of this process in previous publications (Haimovich et al 2017 PNAS; Haimovich & Gerst, 2019 MIMB; Dasgupta et al 2023 eLife). We believe that this process can be utilized for therapy as a means of mRNA-mediated complementation. Initial proof of concept was performed in vitro in cell culture (Haimovich et al 2024 bioRxiv). However, whether this process occurs in vivo is still mostly unknown. This project will focus on using & developing mouse models to study this process in vivo. The candidate will begin to work with experiments already approved by an IACUC but is expected to develop new mouse models and test them, in parallel to in vitro work. This project is fully funded by the Israeli Science Foundation for 4 years. A parallel project (also funded) will be to decipher the molecular mechanism of TNTs-mediated mRNA transfer using genetic and/or biochemical assays. Requirements from the candidate:
How to apply: Email Jeff ([email protected]) or Gal ([email protected]). Please provide your CV, list of publications and 2-3 references for recommendations. In your email, write about yourself and why you are interested in this research. More information about the lab can be found at the Gerst lab website: https://www.weizmann.ac.il/molgen/Gerst/ Information about Weizmann Institute postdoctoral admission, fellowship, visa, relocation, housing and travel can be found here: https://www.weizmann.ac.il/wsos/postdoctoral-training-weizmann-institute |