Master project: 

Spatial control of ubiquitylation 

Ubiquitin is a posttranslational protein modifier that regulates the localization, activity or degradation of thousands of proteins in mammalian cells. Ubiquitin attachment to its substrate proteins, a process termed ubiquitylation, is catalyzed through the concerted action of ubiquitin conjugating and ligating enzymes. The activity of these enzymes must be very tightly controlled in space and time to ensure accurate ubiquitin-dependent signaling in the cell. We are investigating those mechanisms using budding yeast as a model organism. We have previously shown that a protein called Tfb3 regulates the nuclear activity of Rtt101, a ubiquitin ligase involved in the cellular response to DNA damage (Rabut et al., 2011). Tfb3 is part of a large protein complex called TFIIH, but we do not know whether other TFIIH subunits contribute the control of Rtt101 activity in the nucleus. The aim of this master project will be to address this question, using classical genetic and biochemical approaches.

This project, which is funded by the ANR, will be performed under the supervision of Gwenaël Rabut at the Institute of Genetics and Development of Rennes (IGDR) (http://igdr.univ-rennes1.fr/english/). The IGDR comprises 20 research groups addressing a wide range of subjects in cell biology and benefits from excellent core facilities, such as state-of-the-art microscopy and genomics centers.

Rennes is a lively city located in the North-West of France, with fast and direct access to Paris (2 hours by train). Its rich student life, its strong music and food heritage and its proximity to the coast make it a very welcoming and pleasant place to live.

Interested candidates should send their CV and a letter of motivation to Gwenaël Rabut (gwenael.rabut@inserm.fr) and provide the name and contact details of at least one reference.

Gwenaël Rabut

Institute of Genetics and Development of Rennes

Faculté de Médecine, 2 avenue Pr Léon Bernard, 35000 Rennes, France