Master Thesis Opportunity in Gene Regulation

The labgroup of Prof. Kaltner is  looking for a student who will work on the topic “Regulation of human Galectines”

Background:
Our lab is investigating the role of galectins in the development of human osteoarthritis (OA). Galectins are sugar-binding proteins involved in various biological processes, including cell adhesion, communication, immune response, and inflammation. These proteins are known to be upregulated during OA progression, although the regulatory mechanisms behind this are still unclear.

Project Aim:
This project aims to explore the regulatory roles of KLF transcription factors on galectin promoter activity, helping us better understand how galectins are controlled during osteoarthritis. As part of this research, you will join our team to investigate the impact of KLF factors on galectin regulation. You will be responsible for isolating and cloning KLF transcription factors into expression vectors and transfecting cell lines to study their effect on galectin promoters.

Methods & Skills You Will Develop:
• Primer design
• Gene isolation and cloning into expression vectors
• Handling bacterial cultures
• Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
• Human cell line cultivation
• Luciferase reporter assays

What We Offer:
• Close supervision by a postdoctoral researcher
• Hands-on training in molecular biology, biochemistry, and cell culture techniques
• Experience in experimental planning, execution, and data analysis
• Opportunity to contribute to an exciting research project

How to Apply:
If you are passionate about gene regulation and eager to uncover the transcriptional mechanisms controlling galectin expression, please send a brief motivation letter to Dr. Sebastian Schmidt (sebastian.schmidt@lmu.de) explaining why you are interested in this project.