In the Department of Virology at Heidelberg University a postdoctoral position (TVL-13) will be available in the laboratory of Oliver T. Keppler. Our team is interested in several exciting research questions ranging from understanding fundamental principles of virus-host interaction to the development of an HIV-susceptible small animal model (Web: http://www.klinikum .uni-heidelberg. de/Keppler. 6552.0.html).
Besides classical innate and acquired immune responses, mammals have evolved a set of dominant genes that are capable of suppressing or preventing virus replication at the host cell level. In 2008, human CD317 (BST-2, HM1.24, tetherin) was identified as an interferon-inducibl e restriction factor, the expression of which prevents the release of fully matured HIV particles from infected cells through surface-protein- based tethers (Neil et al., Nature 2008). The antiviral potency of human CD317 appears to be very broadly acting since all retroviruses and filoviruses tested thus far are restricted. However, the mode of action CD317 employs to induce virion tethering is currently not understood.
Using techniques from molecular virology, cell biology, immunology and biochemistry, the postdoctoral fellow will (i) elucidate the mechanisms by which CD317 induces this potent restriction of virus replication for HIV-1 and other pathogenic viruses; (ii) decipher how the HIV-1 Vpu protein antagonizes the action of human CD317; and (iii) define species-specific characteristics of CD317 to shed light on virus-host coevolution and the regulation of cross-species transmission.
We offer an exciting and internationally competitive scientific environment and a highly supportive and interactive research team. We are looking for highly motivated individuals with a strong research and publication track record during their Ph.D. or first postdoc. You should have a genuine interest in virology and cell biology.
Please address your inquires and applications to: Oliver T. Keppler, M.D., Department of Virology, University Clinic Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 324, 69120 Heidelberg. Tel: +49-(0)6221- 56-5007; E-Mail: oliver_keppler@ med.uni-heidelbe rg.de; Web: http://www.klinikum .uni-heidelberg. de/Keppler. 6552.0.html.
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