VISITING SCHOLAR, Biological and Biomedical Systems, 49010

School of Science and Engineering, Division of Biological and Biomedical Systems at the University of Missouri-Kansas City.

Professor Maria Spletter, School of Science and Engineering, Division of Biological and Biomedical Systems is offering a placement in her laboratory at the University of Missouri Kansas City. The primary focus of her lab’s work is RNA regulation and muscle development, and more information can be found via the following links: https://spletterlab.com/
https://sse.umkc.edu/profiles/spletter-maria.html

The Spletter lab studies RNA regulation in muscle development. Mature muscles display a wide variety of morphologies and contractile dynamics. These properties are established by differential gene expression and splicing, which allow muscles to fine-tune sarcomere assembly and contractility. Defects in RNA regulation lead to muscle malfunction and disease, emphasizing the importance of alternative splicing and gene isoform expression to normal muscle development. We study how RNA binding proteins, which regulate RNA processing, contribute to muscle-type specific development and function. The laboratory investigates this question in the powerful genetic model organism Drosophila melanogaster, combining classical genetics, confocal imaging, transcriptomics, bioinformatics and biochemistry approaches to understand mechanisms of RNA binding protein function. As both muscle structural components and the contractile mechanism are conserved, our findings are relevant to understanding human myogenesis and muscle disease.

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to work on their own research project, gaining experience with diverse laboratory techniques and building bench experience and independence. This position will appeal to applicants interested in development, genetics or RNA biology.

The successful candidate is expected to be enrolled full time in a Bachelor’s degree program and have completed relevant coursework in biology, biochemistry, genetics or a similar field. Candidates are expected to have solid organization and communication skills, and a strong work ethic.

To apply, please submit a single PDF including a cover letter detailing your motivation and previous experience together with a CV that lists contact information for three references. Please direct all inquiries to Dr. Maria Spletter (maria.spletter@umkc.edu), School of Science and Engineering, Department of Biological and Biomedical Systems, University of Missouri-Kansas City.

UMKC offers a friendly, supportive and multi-cultural work environment. Kansas City supports a rich and diverse intellectual environment specialized in the biomedical sciences, and is also a vibrant, metropolitan Midwestern community. It is ranked among the best cities to live in the United States, with a mild climate, quality healthcare, high quality of life and a low cost of living. From museums and a fine arts district to professional sporting events to outdoor recreation and parks, Kansas City offers a multitude of options to balance life both in and outside of the lab.

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