Master Student (m/f/d) in "Transcription Factor Condensation in Chromatin Opening"
Master Student (m/f/d) in "Transcription Factor Condensation in Chromatin Opening"
Posted on :
31-08-2025
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Job Description
About us
The position
Transcription is a fundamental process that must be precisely regulated for cells to function and for organisms to develop. Pioneer transcription factors (PTFs) play a special role by opening chromatin and activating gene expression programmes that define cell identity. Recent studies show that many PTFs form liquid-like condensates which are key to regulating this process. Our group () investigates how such condensates form what proteins they contain and how they influence chromatin. Using recombinant proteins and advanced single-molecule assays (Figure 2) we reconstitute these processes in vitro to uncover the molecular principles of transcriptional programming.
This project explores how PTFs use biomolecular condensation to remodel chromatin structure (Figure 1). While PTFs are known to access DNA within compacted chromatin the role of their condensates in facilitating chromatin opening remains unclear. To address this chromatin is reconstituted in vitro using fluorescently labeled histones and defined DNA templates and its interaction with PTFs is studied using single-molecule techniques. These include optical tweezers to detect nucleosome unwrapping through force spectroscopy and the carpet assay to visualize condensate formation on surface immobilized chromatin via TIRF microscopy (Figure 2). Together these approaches allow to dissect how PTF condensation influences chromatin accessibility at the single-molecule level.
Tasks and responsibilities
Experience in protein purification and fluorescence microscopy is of advantage but not mandatory you will receive training in the respective techniques in our laboratory. Besides standard molecular biology techniques (SDS-PAGE molecular cloning etc.) you will apply some of the following specialized methods during the course of the proposed project:
Purification of Yamanaka Factors and other disordered transcription factors (Affinity- and Size Exclusion Chromatography)
Reconstitution of nucleosomes and chromatin fibers from purified components
Biochemical characterization of chromatin fibers (MNase-Assays EMSA)
Single-Molecule imaging of transcription factor condensates on DNA and chromatin fibers (TIRF microscopy confocal microscopy)
Single-Molecule force spectroscopy (optical tweezers)
Requirements
Excitement about Condensation and/or Chromatin Biology and Single-Molecule Imaging
Very good oral and written communication skills in English
Good organizational skills and high sense of responsibilityMotivation and team spirit
Experience with good scientific practices and careful work in the laboratory
Why join us
As a master student at IMB you will be part of our Internship Programme ( We offer a stimulating diverse and international research environment with a pleasant working atmosphereand the opportunity to perform state-of-the-art experiments. The institute is modern well-equipped andcentrally located with good public transport links and parking.
Our offer
Advanced training opportunities
Team events
Flexible working hours
What else you need to know
Starting Date: flexible between October 2025 and January 2026
Duration: 6 months
Deadline: 30.09.2025
Have we sparked your interest
To apply please upload your application containing your cover letter CV certificates and contact information of at least one professional references to our application form on Should you have any questions regarding the application process please contact us by email
quoting Ref. No. #SWIMS01. Informal enquires should be addressed toDr Sina Wittmann.
IMB is an equal opportunity employer.
quoting Ref. No. #SWIMS01. Informal enquires should be addressed toDr Sina Wittmann.
IMB is an equal opportunity employer.
Employment Type
Full-Time
Key Skills
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