Overview
Join the Stapornwongkul lab as a Master's student and develop novel optogenetic tools and investigate how spatiotemporal metabolic dynamics affect patterning and morphogenesis of in vitro human gastrulation. About the MetaboDev (Stapornwongkul) Lab
Our lab aims to understand how a cell's metabolic state contributes to the complex regulation of patterning and morphogenesis during embryonic development. Cellular metabolism enables cells to harness nutrients to generate ATP, the cellular energy currency, and to synthesize essential building blocks, such as nucleotides, to support growth and proliferation. However, metabolism is not merely a background process; it is intricately interconnected with cellular functions beyond bioenergetics and biosynthesis. Metabolites can act as cofactors and rate-limiting substrates for post-translational modifications, directly influencing signalling pathways and epigenetics. Our lab uses stem cell-based in vitro models to understand how metabolism can act as a regulator of human development. More information on our website.
Research Area & Project Goals
The metabolic state of cells can influence cell fate decisions during development. However, understanding the importance of metabolic dynamics to regulate patterning and morphogenesis during human development remains a major challenge, as the necessary tools for precision spatiotemporal control are currently lacking. This project will combine state-of-the-art genetic engineering approaches to develop novel optogenetic tools for the manipulation of metabolic activity. We aim to implement these tools in human embryonic stem cells to test whether spatiotemporal metabolic control is sufficient to direct patterning of in vitro model systems.
Your Profile
* Highly motivated, with a strong interest in embryonic development, stem cells, metabolism, and tool development
* Solid hands-on experience in molecular biology and standard cell‑culture techniques
* Prior experience with CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing, or advanced microscopy is a strong advantage
* Enjoys tackling challenging projects, troubleshooting experiments, working collaboratively in a team
* Available for a minimum of 6 months to allow for comprehensive training in hESC culture and tool development.
Responsibilities
* Human embryonic stem cell culture: Maintenance and differentiation of human hESCs.
* Genome editing: Cloning strategies and hESC genome editing (CRISPR/Cas9)
* Bioengineering: Micropatterning techniques that allow the generation of spatially organised in vitro models for human development
* Microscopy: Live-cell imaging using confocal and 2-photon systems.
* Optogenetics: Use of optogenetic tools in a live-cell imaging setup
Our Offer
This is an offer for an exciting project at one of the leading institutes in life sciences in Europe with unparalleled scientific infrastructure and a great work environment.
The master’s project is planned for 12 months (ideally master thesis).
The position includes a monthly stipend of ~ € 1,090, corresponding to a total gross annual salary of € 15,260.
We value diversity and strongly encourage applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of background, ethnicity, gender, or personal identity.
Please apply via the link below. Your application should include CV, letter of motivation and contact details of your referees.
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