We are offering an exciting opportunity for a motivated and talented individual to join our team. Our prior studies have revealed intriguing structural changes in patients with mitochondrial myopathy, a condition characterised by mitochondrial dysfunction. Specifically, we have observed an increased presence of nanotunnels, which are double membrane connections between non-adjacent mitochondria. Additionally, preliminary data suggests that the organization of myonuclei, the nuclei found in muscle cells, is altered in individuals with mitochondrial myopathy.
We have state-of-the-art Bioimaging and Electron Microscopy core facilities, staffed by highly skilled specialists, and renowned expertise in mitochondrial biology. We aim to leverage these exceptional resources to develop a cutting-edge methodology, Correlative Live Light and Electron Microscopy, for the study of mitochondria in cells and tissues.
The main objectives:
- Characterize the positioning of myonuclei in relation to mitochondrial function in individual muscle fibers.
- Optimize and refine the CLEM methodology by integrating live fluorescent light microscopy with Transmission EM and 3D volume EM techniques.
- Develop efficient labeling techniques for a range of mitochondrial protein targets within this system.
- Conduct siRNA knockdown experiments targeting key regulators of mitochondrial dynamics and myonuclear positioning, and utilize the CLEM methodology to investigate their impact.
This project will advance imaging methodologies, enabling future researchers at Newcastle to gain a deeper understanding of various biological processes and provide novel insights into the fundamental biology of mitochondria and its association with mitochondrial myopathy.
If you are passionate about mitochondrial biology, advanced imaging techniques, and making significant contributions to scientific research, we encourage you to apply.
Founded in 1963, Newcastle University is a non-profit public higher education institution located in the urban setting of the small city of Newcastle upon Tyne (population range of 250,000-499,999 inhabitants), North East England. Officially accredited and/or recognized by the Privy Council, Newcastle University is a large (uniRank enrollment range: 20,000-24,999 students) coeducational higher education institution. Newcastle University offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor degrees, master degrees, doctorate degrees in several areas of study. See the uniRank degree levels and areas of study matrix below for further details. This 56 years old higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic record and grades. International students are welcome to apply for enrollment.