Jäschke Lab: Chemical Biology of Nucleic Acids Institute of Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology (IPMB) Universität Heidelberg
The research group of Prof. Dr. Andres Jäschke at the Institute of Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology (IPMB), Heidelberg University, offers a DFG-funded Ph.D. position under the CRC 392 “Molecular Evolution in Prebiotic Environments.” The successful candidate will explore one of modern science’s greatest mysteries: the origin of the genetic code.
Background: The genetic code is a crucial life mechanism that links a three-letter nucleotide code with the corresponding amino acid, encoding proteins from genetic information. Despite its significance, the evolutionary origin of the genetic code remains poorly understood. Over the past five years, our lab has developed methods for interrogating large combinatorial RNA libraries by combining Illumina sequencing with novel aminoacylation assays (JACS 2023, doi: 10.1021/jacs.3c03931). This project leverages our core expertise in interfacing chemistry and molecular biology with next-generation sequencing technology to answer previously inaccessible questions (Nature 2015, Nat. Protocols 2017, Nat. Comm. 2021, Nature 2023, Acc. Chem. Res. 2023).
Objectives: The candidate will use our methodology to experimentally test various hypotheses regarding the origin of the genetic code, such as the relationships between “anticodon” sequences and the preferentially charged amino acids, the preference for L-amino acids over D-amino acids, and the role of “helper” peptides as hypothetical primordial aminoacyl tRNA synthases. Additionally, the candidate will refine and expand the methodology to enhance understanding and make strides towards coded peptide synthesis. The project will involve 20% chemistry, 40% biochemical lab experiments, and 40% computational analysis.
Candidate Profile:
- Enthusiastic and motivated individuals with a keen interest in the origin of life and a desire to answer fundamental scientific questions.
- MSc in Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Chemistry, or a related discipline.
- Creativity, initiative, teamwork, proficiency in English, and a teaching inclination are essential.
- Experience in the following disciplines will be advantageous:
- Standard molecular biology techniques, particularly with RNA.
- Analysis of NGS data and/or familiarity with Python or R.
- Some exposure to synthetic chemistry.
Application Details: To apply, please send the following documents as a single PDF file to Prof. Dr. Andres Jäschke (jaschke@uni-hd.de):
- A letter of motivation for your application.
- Your CV.
- Transcripts.
- A summary of previous research.
- Contact details of two academic references.
Practical Information:
- The initial contract duration is fixed until December 2027.
- The salary corresponds to E13 (65%) TV-L after the probation period.
Contact: Prof. Dr. Andres Jäschke (jaschke@uni-hd.de)
Join us in exploring the fascinating origin of the genetic code and contribute to groundbreaking research at Heidelberg University.
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