Structural characterization of recruitment and regulatory mechanisms of epigenetic regulators
Eva Nogales, Professor
Molecular and Cell Biology
Closed. This professor is continuing with Fall 2024 apprentices on this project; no new apprentices needed for Spring 2025.
Faithful development and maintenance of cell identity requires that the expression of specific genes is turned on and off in a highly regulated manner. This epigenetic regulation requires that chromatin-modifying complexes can be dynamically recruited across the genome and activated with high spatial and temporal control. Many of these chromatin-modifying complexes have been linked to diseases related to development, aging, and cancers by mutations and/or disruptions to normal regulation. We are interested in using molecular biology, biochemistry, and structural biology to uncover how epigenetic regulators engage with their chromatin substrates and the regulatory mechanisms that fine-tune their function.
Role: The URAP student would 1) Optimize protein constructs for recombinant expression 2) Learn to prepare protein and nucleic-acid samples for negative-stain and cryo-EM 3) Perform biochemical assays to measure protein activity 4) Attend weekly lab group meetings and document all work in a lab journal
Qualifications: Ideally, the student will have a basic understanding of molecular biology and biochemistry. The student will be collaborative, committed, and motivated to learn new skills and intellectually contribute toward cutting-edge research projects related to gene regulation. The student will have strong critical thinking and organizational skills, availability, and understand that joining a research lab is a serious commitment. This position is designed for undergraduates of all experience levels with opportunity for increased independence based on levels of experience and commitment. Preference may be given to an undergraduate who will continue through the summer and remain in the lab a minimum of six months.
Day-to-day supervisor for this project: Trinity Cookis, Graduate Student
Hours: 12 or more hours
Related website: http://cryoem.berkeley.edu
Biological & Health Sciences