Advertising division: ZEA-3 - Analytics

Reference number: 2021M-047, Biochemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Biology

Master thesis project: Protein processing in mammalian mitochondria

The team Molecular and Biological Systems Analytics at the Central Institute for Engineering, Electronics and Analytics, ZEA-3, at Forschungszentrum Jülich, develops and applies mass spectrometry-based methods with a focus on proteolytic processes and protease function. We are looking for a motivated Master´s degree student (f/m/d) to join our team at the earliest opportunity.

Background
Mitochondria are endosymbiont-derived cellular compartments that serve as key metabolic hubs in eukaryotic cells. Most of the more than 1000 mitochondrial proteins are encoded in the nucleus, synthesized in the cytosol and targeted to mitochondria by an N-terminal targeting sequence that is removed after import. Interestingly, many proteins are further processed in subsequent steps involving several distinct proteases (see PMID: 33453058). Currently the full extent and purpose of this additional processing is unknown.

Aim of the project
This project will dissect proteolytic protein maturation pathways in human and murine mitochondria using mass spectrometry-based proteomics approaches. A key element will involve unbiased analysis of protein termini in mitochondria with genetically modified protease activity using dedicated methods developed in our laboratory (see PMID: 31471496). We will further aim to determine the consequence of these processing steps on substrate protein stability and function.

Your tasks

• Characterize protein N- and C- termini in human and murine mitochondria
• Identify mitochondrial protease substrates
• Improve a method for C-termini analysis
• Learn to operate nano-LC-MS/MS instruments
• Learn to analyze proteomics data using bioinformatics tools

Your profile

• Master´s student in Biochemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Biology or closely related discipline
• Knowledge and laboratory experience in biochemistry and/or proteomics
• High level of motivation and reliability
• Collaborative work attitude paired with ability to work independently (after training)
• Very good oral and verbal communication skills in English, fluency in German is beneficial

Our offer

• A highly motivated, supportive group in a diverse, stimulating and interdisciplinary working environment at Forschungszentrum Jülich, one of Europe’s largest research centres
• Continuous professional and scientific support by your supervisors
• A part-time contract as student assistant
• Potential for extended employment (fixed term) depending on interest and performance

Contact
Interested? Please send a cover letter detailing your motivation, your CV and academic transcripts as a single pdf file (max. 10 Mb) to

Prof. Dr. Pitter Huesgen (p.huesgen@fz-juelich.de)
Central Institute for Electronics and Analytics
ZEA-3 Analytics
52425 Jülich