Project description

Cell life is organized on a strictly controlled Ca²⁺ homeostasis in which the mitochondrial Ca²⁺ handling is essential. Disturbance of mitochondrial Ca²⁺ levels affects cytosolic Ca²⁺ buffering, and Ca²⁺ signalling, which crucially regulate mitochondrial and cellular metabolism and cell death decisions.

The risk of lung and metabolic diseases has increased significantly, as evidenced by the last pandemic and the rising number of obesity cases. In this project, we aim to elucidate the metabolic role of Ca2+ homeostasis in lung health and the effects of nutritional conditions on metabolic stress and adaptation from the perspective of mitochondrial functions.

In the first part of the project, we will investigate the effect of mitochondria Ca²⁺ handling in Drosophila trachea, which has become an excellent model system for pulmonary disease research, specifically for COPD and SARS-CoV-2. The master student will focus on the newly identified mitochondrial Ca²⁺ transporter TMBIM5 and generate Drosophila conditional trachea-specific TMBIM5 knockdown fly lines to investigate cellular viability, mitochondrial functions, metabolism and immunity. Experimental approaches include molecular and cell biology, biochemistry, and microscopy.

In the second part of the project, the role of mitochondria in response to metabolic stress will be studied. We will use replicated populations of Drosophila that are adapted to different diet (protein-rich and carbohydrate-rich) and investigate the mitochondrial functions, and life history trait of individuals adapted to different diet.

This master project will shed light on the role of mitochondria in metabolism in response to diseases and diet.  

Candidates

We are looking for a highly motivated and talented Master student with solid knowledge in cell or molecular biology and good interpersonal skills. 

Offer

The Master's project is highly interdisciplinary and, led by a collaborative team, offers the opportunity to combine different areas of expertise and explore the intersection of Drosophila and mitochondrial biology in a cutting-edge research topic, with the chance to contribute to a major scientific publication.

We offer a scholarship of around 450 €.

Application

Please send your application including CV to Neda Barghi and Karin Nowikovsky (barghi.neda@gmail.com, karin.nowikovsky@vetmeduni.ac.at)

We are looking for Master and Bachelor students.

Job description

Diploma Thesis to assign.

More information here

We have a thesis to assign.

Deutsch

Englisch

The Mitochondria Biology Group offers a Master Thesis position.

Mitochondria perform essential functions for cellular metabolism and play a pivotal role in most areas of medicine.

Candidates holding a bachelor degree in Life Science are encouraged to apply. Starting date as soon as possible.

Please send your application including CV, motivation letter and contact detail of a referee to Karin.Nowikovsky@vetmeduni.ac.at.

PDF with full advertisement

Students who are interested in completing a thesis or internship are always welcome to apply. The topics come from two areas:

Membranbiophysics Head: Univ.-Prof. Dr. Elena Pohl

Environmental Health Head: Dr. Alois Schmalwieser

Interested students are kindly invited to send an email or write to the head of the respective unit. Applications should consist of a letter of application, a CV and a letter of motivation.