Dear all,

Professor Peppi Karppinen’s research group is looking for a motivated master’s thesis student with a background in biochemistry, biology or a similar field, for a project on Characterization of Phytanoyl-CoA dioxygenase (PHYH), a 2-oxoglutarate dependent dioxygenase (2OGDD) involved in the breakdown of branched-chained fatty acids and whose loss-of-function mutations associate with a neurological Refsum disease.

The group consists of skilled scientists and students with diverse backgrounds and nationalities with a focal point on 2OGDDs. We utilize state-of-the art in vivo and in vitro methods ranging from clinical research to animal and cell models and structural studies of enzymes. More on our research and the group can be found here.

In the thesis project, the student will utilize enzymatic and cellular assays and a Phyh knockout mouse model to study the properties of PHYH and its relevance in diseases. Methods used include analysis of gene expression (qPCR, Western blot, immunohistochemical stainings), mouse experiments and conventional laboratory assays. Experience in handling laboratory mice is seen as an advantage.

The experimental part of the project will be done in the Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Oulu Kontinkangas campus. The experimental part can be started earliest at the beginning of June.

To apply, please send your CV and a motivation letter to (margareta.kurkela@oulu.fi) before May 12^th. Should you have any questions, I’m happy to answer.

With best regards,

Margareta Kurkela

In the thesis project, the student will learn to characterize a disease phenotype in a mouse model and study metabolic phenotype of mouse embryonic fibroblast using Seahorse (Agilent) method. In addition to learning how to analyze, present and discuss scientific data, the student will get diverse and valuable experience from mouse models, cell culture, enzyme kinetic assays, analysis of gene expression (qPCR, Western blot, immunohistochemical stainings) and basic laboratory work.

Margareta Kurkela, MSc

Doctoral researcher

University of Oulu

Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine (FBMM)

ECM-Hypoxia Research Unit

Karppinen (Koivunen) lab | Room L120

Aapistie 7A, FIN-90014, University of Oulu