Utrecht Universitys Faculty of Veterinary Medicine is the only Veterinary School in the Netherlands, and ranks internationally amongst the highest in education, scientific research and clinical care. The Faculty of Veterinary Medicine is among Europes leaders in veterinary education, research and patient care as witnessed by its accreditation by both the American and Canadian Veterinary Medical Associations.
The faculty employs approximately 1000 veterinarians, scientists and support staff and, to facilitate the attainment of critical mass, its research functions are coordinated centrally by the Institute of Veterinary Sciences and the Graduate School of Animal Health. Further information concerning the faculty is available at the website www.vet.uu.nl while general information about Utrecht University can be found at www.uu.nl
The Virology Division, Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, focuses on the molecular biology, pathogenesis and epidemiology of enveloped viruses. A central issue in our research program is the targeting and cell entry of viruses. Within this scope, we are seeking as part of the 'Programme Strategic Scientific Alliance' between the Peoples Republic of China and the Netherlands, PSA) a
PhD student to work on Baculovirus Cell Entry (1,0 fte)
Job description
For the project entitled The structure of the baculovirus budded virus F protein in relation to its interaction with insect cells.
Baculoviruses are natural insect pathogens. They are host-specific and widely used as biological control agents of insect pests. Baculoviruses are also used as vectors for the high-level expression of foreign genes, and more recently, studied as potential gene therapy vectors.
Baculoviruses occur as two virus phenotypes: occlusion derived viruses (ODVs) and budded viruses (BV). While the ODVs are responsible for the horizontal spread of the virus in the insect population, the BV form is responsible for the systemic infection of the host. A key process in the virus life cycle is cell entry by BVs. This process, consisting of attachment to and fusion of BVs with cellular membranes, is mediated by the F protein.
The Ph.D. student will study the F protein of baculoviruses. Goals of this project are to determine how the 3-dimensional structure of the F protein relates to that of other viral fusion proteins, with which molecules the F protein interacts on the insect cell, which domain of F is responsible for the attachment to the cellular receptor and whether Ac23, an F protein homolog in certain baculoviruses, functions as an attachment protein.
Qualifications
We are looking for a young, enthusiastic candidate with an MSc degree in biology, biomedical or biomolecular sciences and a strong motivation for fundamental scientific research. The ideal candidate has experience in molecular techniques and a keen interest in protein chemistry.
The position is open for non-EU citizens only.
Terms of employment
The position will be for four years (full time). The allowance will be, approximately 1,400.- per month. As is customary in the Netherlands, the candidate is expected to complete a PhD thesis at the conclusion of this period.
How to apply
Informal inquiries should be directed to Prof Dr P.J.M. Rottier, p.rottieruu.nl
Applications, including a letter of motivation, curriculum vitae and names and addresses of two references, should be sent before 15 September 2008 to virologyvet.uu.nl. Please refer to this website and mention vacancy number 12861.
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