ESR 7

PhD student position: PI3K signalling in lymphatic malformations

Vascular Development Laboratory at Uppsala University aims to understand the regulation of the vasculature in physiological and pathological conditions. The lab develops and utilizes genetic mouse models in combination with a variety of molecular and cell biological approaches (including advanced microscopy, flow cytometry and (single cell) RNA sequencing) to study how endothelial cells communicate with the tissue environment to co-ordinate morphogenesis and functional specialisation of the vasculature. The lab also investigates how regulators of developmental (lymph)angiogenesis impact on genetic human diseases such as lymphoedema and vascular malformations.

For the EU-MSCA-ETN project V.A. Cure, the lab invites applications for an Early Stage Researcher/PhD student position entitled:

Investigation of the mechanisms of lymphatic endothelial PIK3CA signaling during normal development and formation of lymphatic malformations (ESR7)

You will be part of a team of 14 ESRs working on the V.A. Cure project, which aims to uncover core mechanisms of initiation and maintenance of Vascular Anomalies with the final goal to establish novel therapeutic strategies. The project is funded in the frame of the EU MSCA-ITN programme.

Job description

You will work on a research project with the following objectives:

  • Investigate vascular development in gain- and loss-of-function Pik3ca mouse and zebrafish models
  • Identify Pik3ca-regulated transcriptome and proteome by single cell RNA sequencing and proteomics
  • Determine VM/LM specific transcriptome

You will also take part in the international training programme of the network and participate in various networking and outreach events.

Requirements

We are looking for a motivated student with a strong commitment to basic and/or translational research, who:

  • is eligible for MSCA-ETN funding, see here for eligibility criteria
  • has a MSc degree in biology, biomedical sciences or related disciplines
  • has experience with experimental research; in particular experience with in vivo work (including tissue dissection, preparation and staining), confocal microscopy and image processing and analysis would be advantageous
  • has good skills in oral and written English
  • is a team player with good communication skills

Appointment terms

The period of employment is 4 years. The successful candidate will receive an attractive salary in accordance with MSCA regulations for Early Stage Researchers for the first 3 years. The salary of the fourth year will be according to local guidelines at Uppsala University. Starting date: October 2019.

The successful candidate will devote most of the time towards his/her research level education. Other service activities within the department, e.g. education and administrative work can be included within the framework of the employment (maximum 20%).

How to apply

– Make sure you meet the qualifying requirements.

– The application must be submitted to Uppsala University via a web form that is accessible through this link. Please also send your application to info@vacure.eu, mentioning the number of the ESR position (ESR7).

– Please include in the application:

  • A motivation letter describing your research career goals, skills and experience (cover letter)
  • Curriculum vitae
  • Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (in English or with a translation into English)
  • Two letters of recommendation or the contact information for at least 2 referees.

Deadline for submitting applications: 22 May 2019

More information

Please visit www.vacure.eu for more information on the project, the recruitment and selection criteria. Further information on the activity of the research group can be accessed at www.makinenlab.com. Contact for questions: taija.makinen@igp.uu.se.