Molecular Mechanisms of Cell Signaling

Cells manage to survive, proliferate, and differentiate in their environment by interpreting the signals they receive from it and translating them into the right output. If signaling goes awry, even only in part of the cells, the whole organism is at risk. The MFPL is home to a strong group of internationally recognized scientists that use a combination of biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology, and genetics to study cell signaling in different experimental systems including yeast, plants, mammalian cells and mice. The planned doctoral program concentrates on two main questions of this complex field: i) the impact of post-translational modifications, complex formation, and subcellular localization on the biogenesis and regulation of signaling networks and of the enzymes they comprise; and ii) the mechanisms by which distinct cascades, such as those that signal proliferation, interact with others signaling differentiation, stress, or inflammation. Finding the answers to these questions requires a comprehensive, state-of-the art multi-disciplinary approach. The proposed program is designed to meet the needs of the next generation of signal transduction researchers. Key features of the program will be: 1. Competitive selection of PhD students and supervisors 2. In-depth expert training in signal transduction, combined with cross-disciplinary training under the umbrellaof the International VBC Program, with which the Program will be associated 3. Individualized training on site and abroad, according to individual needs and interests 4. Extensive training in communication skills and training in management skills 5. Supervision by a PhD Thesis Committee (at least 3 PIs chosen by the student on the basis of their scientific background and expertise) 6. Extensive support for the communication of students with the international scientific community through participation in workshops and meetings 7. Intensive, regular contacts between the Cell Signaling Faculty and students, as well as among the students, to foster corporate identity and collaborative research. This blend of technological and transferable skills, together with the strong elements of networking at the local and global level, will equip the students with a competitive professional profile and increase their career chances.