PhD Position: Contributions of the ubiquitin system to mitochondrial quality control (m/f/d)

The ubiquitin system plays a key role in determining the function and fate of proteins in virtually every biological pathway, including protein quality control, genome maintenance, gene expression, and signal transduction. Most often, ubiquitin signalling is mediated by polyubiquitin chains attached to selected substrate proteins. Depending on the linkage between the individual ubiquitin moieties, such chains can adopt many distinct forms and - by means of linkage-selective downstream effectors - convey distinct biological effects. Via this so-called “ubiquitin code”, the ubiquitin system protects us from diseases such as cancer, premature ageing, inflammation and neurodegeneration. We have recently developed a proteomics-based method, named “LinkageID”, to systematically isolate cellular factors associated with particular linkages. By applying this technique in mammalian cell culture and budding yeast, we plan to identify novel ubiquitin targets, relevant enzymes as well as downstream effectors of linkage-specific polyubiquitylation.
This project aims at elucidating the importance of ubiquitin linkage in controlling the import of proteins into mitochondria. Defects in the cellular components guiding this process disrupt mitochondrial function and are associated with several diseases. The ubiquitin system is known to ensure the maintenance of the import system and remove dysfunctional channels, but the relevant substrates, enzymes and regulatory factors are still poorly understood. The PhD student involved in this project will perform LinkageID under conditions where mitochondrial protein import is impaired to investigate the impact of polyubiquitin chain linkage and identify the factors involved. Downstream functional analyses will then involve biochemical as well as cell and molecular biological approaches. In this manner, the project aims to elucidate the relevance of linkage-specific ubiquitin signalling in an important cellular resilience mechanism against ageing and disease.

If you are interested in this project, please select Ulrich as your group preference in the IPP application platform.

Are you an ambitious scientist looking to push the boundaries of research while interacting with colleagues from multiple disciplines and cultures? Then joining the IPP is your opportunity to give your scientific career a flying start!
All you need is:

• Master or equivalent
• Interactive personality & good command of English
• 2 letters of reference

• Exciting, interdisciplinary projects in a lively international environment, with English as our working language
• Advanced training in scientific techniques and professional skills
• Access to our state-of-the-art Core Facilities and their technical expertise
• Fully funded positions with financing until the completion of your thesis
• A lively community of more than 200 PhD students from 44 different countries

For more details on the projects offered and how to apply via the online form using the apply button.

The deadline for applications is 1 April 2026. Interviews will take place at IMB in Mainz on 22 & 23 June 2026.
Starting date: 1 July - 31 December 2026