PhD Student: Decoding Epigenetic Mechanisms of Gene Regulation in T Cells
The group of Fred van Leeuwen is looking for a PhD candidate to join our team working on mechanisms and functions of epigenetic pathways in T cells. In this project, you will study how targeting an epigenetic writer protein called DOT1L reprograms cytotoxic T cells. T cells are crucial players in anti-tumor responses, but tuning their activity remains a challenge. By understanding the epigenetic mechanisms by which DOT1L works, we hope to ultimately strengthen T cells so they can fight cancer cells more effectively. Do you want to join us in uncovering new insights into T-cell biology and help pave the way for more effective cancer immunotherapies? Take this opportunity to grow as a scientist while contributing to research that could make a real difference for cancer patients.
In this research project you will:
Apply innovative and complementary strategies in a tractable human T cell model, including CRISPR-Cas9 based genome engineering and epigenetic editing, epigenomics and transcriptomics, and unique DNA-barcode-based epigenetic screens in yeast.
Validate mechanisms in primary human CD8 T cells.
Gain molecular insights to provide leads for improved epigenetic perturbation of CD8 T cells to enhance cytotoxic activity towards cancer cells.
Our group is part of the Division of Gene regulation, which focuses on (epigenetic) mechanisms of genome-organization and gene transcription. We
