Description du sujet de thèse

This PhD project aims to understand the molecular mechanism of small RNA-directed programmed DNA elimination (PDE) in the ciliate Tetrahymena. Many players involved in PDE (PDE factors) remain unidentified probably because the previous studies mainly used either candidate-driven reverse genetics by gene knockout (KO) in which a limited number of genes was examined and genes essential for vegetative growth could not be tested for their functions in PDE, or co-precipitation with known PDE factors, which could not recover transient and/or unstable interactors. To overcome these limitations, this project aims to a) optimize Cas13-based gene knock-down (KD) method in Tetrahymena; b) establish sorting methods to isolate cells/nuclei having defects in various steps of PDE; c) perform large-scale genetic screening by combining (a) and (b) to identify PDE factors; d) use the LOV-Turbo-ID system to identify PDE factors; and e) characterize identified novel PDE factors.

Contexte de travail

The Institute of Human Genetics (IGH) is a joint research unit affiliated with the CNRS and the University of Montpellier. It hosts around 220 staff members and is organized into three departments. The PhD student will join the team “Epigenetic Chromatin Regulation”, under the supervision of Dr. K Mochizuki (DR1, CNRS). IGH is located on the Arnaud de Villeneuve campus and is part of the Objectif Employeur Pro-Vélo program, which promotes sustainable commuting.

Contraintes et risques

In accordance with IGH's internal regulations. Occasional work outside regular working hours may be required.