Characterizing the function of proteins associated with ciliopathies

Eukaryotic cilia and flagella are highly conserved microtubule-based organelles that play
important roles in cell/fluid motility and cell signaling. In humans, an increasing number of inherited disorders are
associated with defects in cilia assembly or function and are now classified as ciliopathies. Their surprising characteristic
is the manifestation of a wide range of symptoms, from chronic respiratory infections to cystic kidneys, obesity, diabetes,
retinal degeneration or mental retardation. The range of organs affected in ciliopathies is still expanding and new
syndromes are likely to emerge as ciliopathies in the future.
We are using Drosophila to understand how candidate genes affect cilia formation and stability. Drosophila is a powerful
model system as it contains only a few types of ciliated cells that recapitulate the different types of cilia found in humans.
This model allows efficient functional analysis using genetic approaches and is amenable to biochemical studies.
The PhD project aims to understand the precise function of two proteins whose mutations in humans are associated
with retinal ciliopathy. In this project, the PhD candidate will combine the power of functional genetic approaches in
Drosophila (RNAi and/or CrispR-Cas9 genome editing) with cutting-edge imaging strategies (Expansion microscopy
coupled with spinning-confocal and STED microscopies) and biochemical strategies to determine the contribution of
each protein to cilia assembly and maintenance.
This PhD proposal is part of a collaborative project with the NCBS in Bangalore (India) and involves
two reciprocal meetings in India (Bangalore) and France (Lyon) for the PhD students involved in each country.

Host institute: Mechanisms of integrative Life Sciences (MeLiS)
Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1 (UCBL), Lyon, France

Team : Cilia assembly and Development, Prof. Bénédicte Durand

-Candidates should hold a Master's degree in Biological Sciences with qualifications in Genetics, Cell Biology and
Developmental Biology.
-Knowledge of imaging approaches is an advantage. Experience with model organisms will be considered
positively, but experience with the Drosophila model is not required.
-An interest in basic cell and developmental biology is important.
-Proficiency in English (International collaborative program)
-A strong interest in challenging experimental work is desirable.
-Good interpersonal, communication, organizational and presentation skills