**Post-doctoral position for studies on the effects of synthetic RNA on aggregation of neurodegenerative disease-associated proteins**
- (2300002A)
- Project: R_ibonucleoprotein interactions both in vitro and in mammalian cell lines_
- Commitment & contract: collaboration contract_
- Location: Genova, Italy_
**WHO WE ARE**
At IIT we work enthusiastically to develop human-centered Science and Technology to tackle some of the most pressing societal challenges of our times and transfer these technologies to the production system and society.
Our Genoa headquarter is strictly inter-connected with our 11 centres around Italy and two outer-stations based in the US for a truly interdisciplinary experience.
**YOUR TEAM**
You'd be working in a multicultural and multi-disciplinary group, where _computational scientists, biotechnologists and biologists_ _collaborate, each with their own expertise, to carry out common research.
The _RNA Systems Biology_ Research Line is coordinated by _Prof.
Gian Gaetano Tartaglia_, who has extensive experience in _biophysics and computational science._
The RNA Systems Biology Research Line is supported by an ERC grant and combines computational and experimental work to unravel protein interactions with coding and non-coding RNAs.
As a large number of proteins have the ability to interact with RNA, we strive to understand their targets and contact regions.
To this aim, we develop algorithms for predictions of RNA interactions with proteins and validate them experimentally.
The information deriving from these analyses enables us to also design _de novo_ RNA sequences (aptamers) to interact specifically with disease-associated protein targets.
The use of RNA aptamers regulating protein structure and function in the context of aberrant protein aggregation provides a framework to understand molecular determinants of human disorders including Parkinson's disease, Fragile X-Associated Tremor/Ataxia Syndrome and Neuronal Intranuclear Hyaline Inclusion Disease.
The research will focus on ribonucleoprotein formation and in-cell protein and RNA phase transition.
**WITHIN YOUR TEAM, YOUR MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES WILL BE**:
- Use biochemical and molecular biology approaches to determine and validate the interactions between RNA and proteins;
- Study the effects of the RNA aptamers in mammalian cell cultures (including primary lines), relying on cell biology approaches and microscopy techniques;
- Determine the conditions for early detection of protein aggregates by means of the RNA aptamers in cells, in tissue and in biological fluids;
- Be an active part of the team by periodically presenting your work, supervising students if necessary and share your expertise with the other members of the group
**WHAT IS REQUIRED TO APPLY FOR HIS POSITION**
- A PhD in Cellular/Molecular Biology, Biochemistry or equivalent
- Previous experience in working with RNA, protein and/or their interactions
- Familiarity with cell culture maintenance and complementary techniques, including cytofluorimetry and fluorescence microscopy
- Knowledge of molecular biology techniques, including cloning, PCR, immunoprecipitation and western blotting
**WHAT WOULD MAKE YOU SHINE**
- Knowledge of RNA handling, RNA transfection and quantification, CLIP/RIP, FISH
- Experience with primary cell cultures and PSCs
- Familiarity with the biochemical aspects of bio-macromolecules interactions
- Good spoken and written English
**EXTRA AWESOME**
- Proactive attitude and result-oriented mindset
- Good interpersonal and communication skills and ability to work effectively within an interdisciplinary research team.
- Strong problem solving attitude
- High motivation to learn
- Spirit of innovation and creativity
**COMPENSATION & BENEFITS**
- Competitive salary package for international standards
- Private health care coverage
- Wide range of staff discounts
**WHAT'S IN FOR YOU?
**
- An equal, inclusive and multicultural environment ready to welcome you with open arms.
Discrimination is a big NO for us!
- We like contamination and encourage you to mingle and discover what other people are up to in our labs!
- If paperwork is not your piece of cake, we got you!
There's a specialized team working to help you with that, especially during your relocation!
- If you are a startupper or a business-minded person, you will find some exceptionally gifted professionals ready to nurture and guide your attitude and aspirations.
- If you want your work to have a real impact, in IIT you will find an innovative and stimulating culture that drives our mission to contribute to the improvement and well-being of society!
- We stick to our values!
Integrity, courage, societal responsibility and inclusivity are the values we believe in!
They define us and our actions in our everyday life.
They guide us to accomplish IIT mission!
If you feel this tickles your appetite for change, do not hesitate and apply!
- Application's deadline: _**_March 31,