[FPU2019] NIMA-family kinases, aneuploidy and cancer

Errors in chromosome segregation are associated with tumorigenesis, are a leading cause of spontaneous abortion and can result in different genetic disorders. We are interested in understanding how cells control the machinery that allows them to correctly segregate the chromosomes during cell division. Specifically, we study how different protein kinases control the organization and function of the centrosomes and the mitotic spindle through the specific modification of different proteins. For this we use genetically modified animals and cells as well as a range of molecular biology and biochemical techniques, including these related to the production and culture of cells, CRISPR/CAS9, RNAi, FACS, live cell microscopy, western blot, immunoprecipitation, immunofluorescence, proteomics etc .

Ongoing research lines in the lab study:

-    the different functions performed by the NIMA-family kinases Nek9, Nek6 and Nek7 during spindle formation and chromosome segregation in mitosis.
-    the importance of Nek9, Nek6 and Nek7 during development and their possible implication in the onset of different pathologies (such as cancer or different neurodevelopmental defects).
-    the phosphoregulation of different molecular motors and associated proteins during G2 and mitosis and its importance for correct chromosome segregation.

We are looking for students that are highly motivated to do research (and obtain a PhD), and able to work well in a team to join ongoing projects and develop new ones around these lines. Previous experience with mouse models, cell culture, last-generation microscopy or immunological techniques will be valued. If you are interested send a CV, academic records and a short letter of interest to joan.roig@ibmb.csic.es .