Post date: 04/30/19
The Haase group investigates the ongoing conflict between mobile genetic parasites and their host genome by understanding how piRNAs are generated and specifically silence transposons. The intrinsic ability of transposons to amplify and reinsert into novel genomic locations resulted in their colonization of half of our genome. Their activity threatens genome integrity and must be restrained. PiRNAs and their PIWI protein partners, establish transposon silencing in germ cells, thus securing the survival of a species. While recent advances have deciphered the framework of piRNA-mediated transposon control, molecular events that ensure specificity and efficiency of the pathway remain largely unknown. Our current projects focus on three distinct aspect of piRNA biology through an integrative approach combining biochemistry, fly genetics, and genomics:
- Identify mechanisms that designate transcripts for processing into piRNAs.
- Determine rules that govern robustness and adaptability of piRNA-mediated transposon control.
- Establish a robust system to study human piRNA biology and its potential impact on genome stability in disease.
Roles and Responsibilities
About You
We encourage interdisciplinary thinking an welcome applications from students with various backgrounds. Our current and previous students include engineers, biochemists, biologists and mathematicians. Our enthusiasm for uncovering the mechanisms of small RNA-guided transposon control units us. Students conduct their own independent research project, and are encouraged to consider a 2-year fellowship. Candidates must meet the criteria in the Post-baccalaureate Intramural Research Training Award Program.
Application
Contact Dr. Astrid HaaseBack to All Jobs and Recruitment
