Master Project in Plant Glycobiology

Master Project Available: Identifying Glycosyltransferases involved in Plant Arabinogalactan Biosynthesis

Are you passionate about unraveling the mysteries of plant biology and contributing to cutting-edge research in the field of glycoscience? Join our team and uncover the role of glycosyltransferases that glycosylate arabinogalactan proteins.

Project Description: Arabinogalactan proteins are essential components of plant cell walls, playing important roles in growth, development, and plant stress response. However, the precise mechanisms governing the biosynthesis of their O-linked arabinogalactan moiety remain elusive. This Master project aims to identify glycosyltransferases involved in arabinogalactan biosynthesis, shedding light on the functions of arabinogalactan proteins in plant cell walls. The project is part of a FWF-funded project: https://www.fwf.ac.at/en/research-radar/10.55776/PAT1358423

Key Responsibilities:

• Employ innovative biochemical and molecular biology techniques to identify and characterize glycosyltransferases associated with arabinogalactan biosynthesis.

• Utilize advanced analytical tools, including mass spectrometry and glycan microarrays, to elucidate the enzymatic activities and substrate specificities of glycosyltransferases.

• Collaborate with interdisciplinary research teams to integrate findings into broader understanding of plant cell wall biology.

• Present research findings at conferences and publish results in peer-reviewed journals.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in biochemistry, molecular biology, or a related field.

• Background in biochemical and molecular biology techniques.

• Experience with protein expression, purification, and enzyme assays is desirable.

• Excellent communication skills and ability to work collaboratively in a research team.

• Passion for plant biology and glycoscience.

Benefits:

• Opportunity to work in a vibrant research environment with state-of-the-art facilities.

• Payment as minor employment (518 Euros per month).

Application Instructions: Interested candidates should submit a CV, cover letter outlining research interests and relevant experience to Colin Ruprecht (colin.ruprecht(at)boku.ac.at).

Equal Opportunity Employer: The University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences (BOKU) is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and identities.