Postdoctoral position on DNA damage response and cohesion | Dana Branzei's laboratory
IFOM is an internationally recognized non-profit cancer research institute supported by the Italian Association for Cancer Research (AIRC) based in Milan within a highly dynamic urban environment
IFOM continuous success is ensured by the recruitment of highly selected undergraduate, graduate and post-graduate researchers from over 24 countries worldwide.
IFOM is hosted within a research campus shared with the European Institute of Oncology and the Italian Institute of Technology.
IFOM is committed to creating a safe and inclusive environment, based on mutual respect and the enhancement of diversity, offering equal job opportunities to all qualified candidates.
About the position
The internationally recognized Branzei Laboratory at IFOM ETS, the AIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology in Milan, invites applications for a postdoctoral researcher to explore the fields of replication stress response and sister chromatid cohesion using mammalian cells or budding yeast. This opportunity is perfect for a dedicated and dynamic scientist with an impressive academic record, looking to expand their horizons and apply for prestigious grants such as the EMBO Long-Term Fellowship or a Marie Curie Training Network fellowship.
Department overview
The Branzei Lab has consistently driven forward groundbreaking research on genomic integrity over the past decade. Our emphasis is on the delicate interplay between genomic replication, DNA repair, and the organization of functional chromosomes. We prioritize understanding the intricacies of DNA damage repair and replication and their relationship to chromosome structure establishment, including sister chromatid cohesion and genome folding.
Our research has led to pioneering work on DNA damage bypass during replication and has shed light on key mechanisms of genome fragility. Our group's significant contributions provide fundamental insights into the etiological basis of human syndromes, such as developmental defects, bone marrow failure, and cancer predisposition.
At Branzei Lab, you will work in a supportive and collaborative environment that integrates advanced visualization techniques, mechanistic characterizations of complex biological processes, and state-of-the-art methodologies, setting the standard in the field. The lab is led by Dr. Dana Branzei, who is known for her unique, integrative approach to solving complex scientific problems. Her mentoring style is supportive and inspiring, fostering a nurturing and intellectually stimulating environment for all lab members.
Examples of recent papers:
1. Chinnu Rose Joseph, Sabrina Dusi, Michele Giannattasio, and Dana Branzei* (2022). Rad51-mediated replication of damaged templates relies on monoSUMOylated DDK kinase. Nat Commun 13(1):2480. doi: 10.1038/s41467-022-30215-9.
2. Valeria Dolce, Sabrina Dusi, Michele Giannattasio, Chinnu Rose Joseph, Marco Fumasoni and Dana Branzei* (2022). Parental histone deposition on the replicated strands promotes error-free DNA damage tolerance and regulates drug resistance. Genes Dev 36:167-179, doi: 10.1101/gad.349207.121.
3. Ryotaro Kawasumi, Takuya Abe, Ivan Psakhye, Keiji Miyata, Kouji Hirota, and Dana Branzei* (2021). Vertebrate CTF18 and DDX11 essential function in cohesion is bypassed by preventing WAPL-mediated cohesin release. Genes Dev 35:1368-1382, doi: 10.1101/gad.348581.121.
4. Nanda Kumar Jegadesan and Dana Branzei*. DDX11 loss causes replication stress and pharmacologically exploitable DNA repair defects. Proc Natl Acad Sci 118: e2024258118, doi:10.1073/pnas.2024258118.
Profile Description
We are seeking a candidate with a PhD degree and excellent skills in molecular biology or genomic studies. Experience in wet lab research, proficiency in English, and the ability to work independently with either budding yeast or mammalian cell lines is required. The ideal candidate is unafraid of challenges, willing to engage in a journey of exciting scientific discoveries, and eager to contribute to our ambitious team.
Language skills
Proficiency in English for speaking and writing
Required skills
Lab wet experience in molecular biology and/or genomic studies
Additionally desired skills
Experience with mammalian cell culture or budding yeast
Educational experience
PhD degree
What we offer
International work environment
Continuous training
Flextime
Relocation cost support
Guest house inside the Campus
Agreements with discounts for Gym, Pharmacy, Psychology service and various shops around Ifom area
Bar and canteen inside the campus & lunch benefit
Company Nursery
Continuous support to candidates and their families (including homing, schooling, registration to the national health system, work permit etc.) thanks to the activities of the Welcome office
Medical Service
Laptop
Caf service- tax declaration
ONLY scientific positions
Lab G: it is a lab specifically designed for pregnant or breastfeeding women researchers
Type of Contract
Annual Renewal fellowship
The candidate will be offered a competitive salary, commensurate with skills and working experience
Location
Milan, Scalo di Porta Romana area
Contacts
Please email your CV and a statement of interest to dana.branzei[@]ifom.eu.