posted 4/23/08
Generation of novel zebrafish knock-out and knock-in models for the study of angiogenesis.
A postdoctoral position is available to apply zinc finger nuclease (ZFN) technology to generate zebrafish knock-out and knock-in models related to blood vessel development. This position will provide a unique opportunity to exploit and further develop ZFN technology in zebrafish as part of an ongoing collaborative effort between the neighboring laboratories of Drs. Nathan Lawson and Scot Wolfe. This effort will include the application of ZFNs to generate knock-in and conditional alleles and will afford the successful applicant with the opportunity to master selection systems used to generate and evaluate site-specific ZFNs. The genetic models developed in the context of these studies will be used to address questions of interest relating to endothelial cell differentiation and angiogenesis. Particular emphasis will be on the Vegf and Notch signaling pathways, as well as development of zebrafish models for congenital vascular disease. For more information, see the following publications:
Meng, Noyes, Zhu, Lawson and Wolfe. (2008) Targeted gene inactivation in zebrafish using zinc finger nucleases, Nat. Biotech., in press.
Siekmann and Lawson (2007) Notch signalling limits angiogenic cell behaviour in developing zebrafish arteries. Nature 445:781-784
Siekmann, Covassin, and Lawson (2008). Modulation of VEGF signalling output by the Notch pathway. Bioessays 30:303-313
Applicants must be highly motivated and technically accomplished as documented by exceptional publication record. The ideal candidate will have demonstrated experience with vertebrate developmental model systems and a strong background in molecular biology. Prior experience with zebrafish is beneficial, but not required. Please send or email CV and reprints of relevant publications to the contact information below. Applicants accepted for initial consideration will be subsequently contacted for letters of reference.
Nathan D. Lawson, PhD
Associate Professor
Program in Gene Function and Expression
University of Massachusetts Medical School
Lazare Research Building, Room 617
364 Plantation Street
Worcester, MA 01605
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