by Riem Gawish
The mammalian lung is a vital organ for gas exchange and tissue oxygenation with a broad repertoire of mechanisms that ensure the maintenance of tissue functions despite constant exposure to all kinds of airborne noxes. In the Knapp lab, we investigate the interplay of immune- and structural cells and dissect the cellular and molecular processes that regulate inflammation, resolution and repair in the context of infection-induced lung injury.
Importantly, lung immunity is substantially influenced by the circadian clock which rhythmically co-ordinates a large variety of biological processes. We have recently found that alveolar macrophages (AMs), the main resident immune cell population in the lung, respond to Toll-like receptor stimuli in a circadian time-dependent manner. Particularly IL-6 production by AMs seems to be day-time dependent and we have collected evidence that this is regulated by a mechanism that involves RNA editing, an important post-transcriptional regulatory layer that critically controls gene expression.
"As a PhD student in the Knapp lab, you will get the chance to learn of state-of-the art molecular biological techniques and work on clinically relevant mouse models of pneumonia."
In this PhD project, we will use established AM ex-vivo culture and murine models of COVID-19 and pneumococcal pneumonia, to further dissect the mechanistic basis for circadian time dependency of AM responses and how this impacts lung physiology and pathology in situations of inflammatory stress.
As a PhD student in our lab, you will get the chance to learn of state-of-the art molecular biological techniques and work on clinically relevant mouse models of pneumonia. Being part of the Immunology PhD program of the Medical University of Vienna, you will be closely supervised and professionally trained in an intellectually challenging and diverse environment, which will allow you to identify and foster your personal strengths and develop your skill set. This project is a fantastic opportunity if you want to do exciting basic lung research in a highly professional and open-minded team, in one of the most livable cities in the world. We are very much looking forward to your application and meeting you soon in person.