The Proteomics TechHub is looking for a highly motivated MSc student in the field of proteomics - focusing on method development in the field of single cell proteomics (SCP) to improve our fundamental understanding of embryonic development.
Our Group. At the Proteomics TechHub headed by Karl Mechtler, we aim to develop new and powerful methods to increase sensitivity in protein identification, accuracy and precision of protein quantification or post-translational modification detection. To achieve these goals, we frequently collaborate with international research groups and industry.
The Project. Single-cell proteomics by mass spectrometry is emerging as a powerful and unbiased method for the investigation of cellular heterogeneity and thereby complementing transcriptomics and genomics data. Proteins are the main driver of cellular functionality and understanding their regulation is crucial to understand cellular development and pathogenesis.
This project is a collaborative effort with the Medical University of Vienna aiming to understand the molecular and cellular factors contributing to cellular heterogeneity and how this heterogeneity influences embryogenesis. The ultimate project goal will be to enhance the success of assisted reproductive technologies by identifying potential targets for therapeutic intervention. Within the project the master's student will focus on the optimization of single blastomere mass-spectrometry analysis as well as on the implementation of a multiomics approach aiming to integrate proteomic and transcriptomic data on a single cell level.
The Proteomics TechHub already made significant improvements in (semi-)automated one-pot sample preparation (Matzinger et al., Anal. Chem., 2023), improvement of data acquisition strategies (Matzinger et al., Nat. Commun., 2024) and instrument setup to boost sensitivity & reproducibly quantify more than 5000 proteins from a single cell (Bubis et al., bioRxiv, 2024). The required throughput and data reliability of such studies are subject to further developments and will involve the master's student’s project. The proposed project will be supervised by a postdoc and is scheduled to be completed within one year. The successful applicant will receive a monthly stipend.
The Candidate. The successful candidate should hold a BSc degree in the fields of chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology or a related field. Experience in mass spectrometry as well as in the wet lab are desirable. Fluency in English is required, and English is used as working language. The candidate should be curious, creative, and excited about learning new topics and skills! Despite the emphasis on technology development within our group, a candidate with experience, knowledge, or curiosity at the interception of analytical chemistry and biochemistry will make a perfect match.
Our Environment. The Research Institute of Molecular Pathology (IMP) in Vienna is a basic research institute largely sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim and embedded in the vibrant environment of the Vienna BioCenter – one of Europe’s largest life science hubs including six research institutions, two universities and over 35 biotech companies. With around 280 employees from 40 countries, the IMP is committed to scientific discovery of fundamental molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying complex biological phenomena.
Please send you application (motivation letter, CV, contact details of at least one reference) by mail to karl.mechtler[at]imp.ac.at and manuel.matzinger@imp.ac.at
Please note that we do not offer a full master program. Applicants will need to enroll or be enrolled in a master program that allows for research to be conducted at external institutions.