Notch signaling is a key communication system in animals, which can, when disturbed, drive a variety of developmental diseases and cancer. However, the parameters dictating the output diversity - the “Notch code” - remains poorly understood. Despite decades of research, the combinatorial code determining communication outcome induced by specific receptor-ligand interactions remains encrypted.

The long-term aim of Emma Andersson´s lab is to identify the mechanisms governing the combinatorial code output of discrete Notch receptor/ligand interactions, presented in trans, cis, or as soluble fragments. The ultimate goal of these studies is to establish a universal model that would allow us to understand how Notch signaling employs its repertoire of signaling components to achieve diverse outcomes in vivo. This would provide unique insight into Notch biology, and allow fine-tuned development of therapeutics with an unprecedented potential for personalised medicine.

We seek a curious Master student who would like to help us elucidate if the Notch signaling is a bi-directional signaling pathway with signaling activity in both the Notch receptor- and Jagged1 ligand-expressing cell.

This project will provide training in key basic molecular techniques such as; mammalian cell culture, subcellular fractionation using centrifugation, western blotting and fluorescent microscopy. The student will receive hands on supervision from two post-doctoral scientists within the Andersson group – Jan Masek and Marika Sjöqvist.

Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Jan Masek (post doc) by email for further information regarding the project.