PhD Thesis in the Herzog Lab

Gene Center, LMU Munich 

The group of Biological Mass Spectrometry is located at the Gene Center of the Ludwig- Maximilians Universität München. We are especially interested in the assembly of macromolecular protein complexes that are guiding the accurate distribution of chromosomes to daughter cells during cell division. For the structural characterization we use chemical cross-linkers and identify the linked amino acid residues by mass spectrometry. We are combining mass spectrometry with structural biology, biochemistry and cell biology in order to reveal the architecture of chromatin assembled protein structures and their roles in accurate cell division. 

Your profile: We are looking for highly motivated students who share our enthusiasm for interdisciplinary research combining mass spectrometry with structural and cell biology. Candidates should have practical experience in molecular biology and protein purification and an interest in cell division and protein biochemistry. 

Projects: One focus of the lab is the structural and mechanistic investigation of centromere- associated protein complexes, in particular, kinetochore complexes. Architectural models obtained by hybrid structural analysis are tested using yeast genetics and cell biology to gain mechanistic insights into feedback control loops crucial for the accuracy chromosome segregation. We also follow up technology-driven projects including chemical cross-linking workflows to characterize protein binding interfaces and to identify direct protein interactions in complex samples. 

Position: The PhD position is initially limited to 3 years with the option for extension. The salary is according to the TV-L. The University of Munich is an equal opportunity employer. Handicapped candidates with equal qualifications will be given preference. 

Please send your CV with a summary of previous research experience and a cover letter to Dr. Franz Herzog herzog@genzentrum.lmu.de