Understanding long non-coding RNA function

Our cells use nearly 80% of our DNA, but less than 2% is used for making
proteins. The remaining 78% generates non-coding RNAs, which play
crucial roles in health and disease. As the vast majority of current drugs act
on proteins, non-coding RNAs represent an untapped source of biological
mechanistic knowledge and future drug targets. This project will focus on a
long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) called Malat1 that was discovered due to its
association with cancer metastasis. The successful applicant will investigate
the function and regulation of Malat1 in normal, non-cancerous cells, in
order to establish its physiological function (why our cells need it). The
work will provide important clues about the function of lncRNAs.
Understanding lncRNA function is one of the most exciting current
challenges in molecular cell biology. The student will employ a broad range
of biochemical and molecular cell biology experimental approaches and
work as part of an enthusiastic research team.