What are the Protective Roles of XIAP in the Response to Oxidative Stress?

Reference Code: CB107

Details:

Name of the supervisors
Dr N Kenneth, Institute for Cell and Molecular Biosciences (ICAMB)

Sponsor
This studentship is sponsored by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) as part of the Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP).

Duration of the award
Four years (MRes Biosciences followed by a three-year PhD)

Project description
Our research programme is focused on a group of intracellular proteins termed the IAPs (inhibitors of apoptosis). IAPs have been implicated in a wide range of cellular processes including cell cycle control, ubiquitination and intracellular signaling, as well as the regulation of apoptotic cell death. The aim of the lab is to understand the roles played by these factors in essential cellular processes, to assess how the expression and function of IAPs are altered in diseased states.

The focus of this Mres/ PhD project will be the signaling properties of XIAP (X-linked IAP), with particular focus on its role as a regulator of the NF-ƒÛB transcription factor. Despite the widely held view that the physiological role of XIAP is to function solely to inhibit apoptotic cell death, there is a wealth of experimental evidence to indicate that this protein participates in a diverse range of cellular activities. This MRes/PhD project aims to define the physiological role of XIAP by using isogenic cell lines in which XIAP has been mutated or ablated using TALEN genome editing technologies. The aim will be to elucidate the functional role of XIAP and NF-ƒÛB in a variety of cytolytic and cellular signaling assays.  

This project will involve a wide variety of cellular and molecular biology methods with training being provided directly by the principle investigator. The laboratory is located in ICaMB, which brings together leading scientists in the field of Eukaryotic Cell Biology and provides stimulating environment for post-graduate study.

Value of the award and eligibility
Depending on how you meet the BBSRC’s eligibility criteria, you may be entitled to a full or a partial award. A full award covers tuition fees at the UK/EU rate and an annual stipend of £13,726 (2013/14). A partial award covers fees at the UK/EU rate only.

Person specification
Candidates should have or expect to achieve a first-class or upper-second-class Honours degree in a relevant science subject. 

How to apply
You must apply through the University’s online postgraduate application form selecting ‘Master of Research/Doctor of Philosophy (Medical Sciences) – Cell and Molecular Biosciences’ as the programme of study. Please insert the studentship/partnership reference number CB107. Only mandatory fields need to be completed (no personal statement required) but you must attach a copy of your CV and a covering letter, quoting the title of the studentship and reference number CB107.

Closing date for applications  
The post will remain open until a suitable applicant is appointed. Early application is advised.

Further information
For further details, please contact: 
Dr N Kenneth
E-mail: niallk@umich.edu
Telephone: +001 734 615 1902

For more information and to submit an application, please use the ‘Apply’ button below.