MSc by Research: Discovering the Biological Role(s) and Proteomic Impact of Non-Canonical Ubiquitylation

About the Project

Ubiquitylation, the process by which the small protein ubiquitin is attached to target proteins, is a fundamental post-translational modification (PTM) that regulates almost every cellular function. Dysregulation of the ubiquitylation machinery is implicated in numerous diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and immune dysfunctions. Traditionally, ubiquitylation was believed to occur exclusively on lysine residues (canonical ubiquitylation). However, recent groundbreaking discoveries have revealed that ubiquitin can also be attached to other amino acids, such as serine and threonine, as well as non-protein molecules like sugars (non-canonical ubiquitylation).

Non-canonical ubiquitylation challenges established paradigms in protein regulation and opens new avenues for understanding cellular functions in health and disease. Understanding the scope and biological significance of non-canonical ubiquitylation will reshape our knowledge of cellular processes and identify novel therapeutic targets.

This MSc by Research project will address key questions, including:

• What is the extent and distribution of non-canonical ubiquitylation in cells?
• What are the biological roles and regulatory mechanisms of non-canonical ubiquitylation?
• How does non-canonical ubiquitylation influence disease processes, particularly in cancer?

We offer several well-defined, self-contained projects tailored to the specific interests and career goals of the student, each emphasizing the development of specialized skill sets:

• Mass Spectrometry & Proteomics: Identify novel targets of non-canonical ubiquitylation, leveraging state-of-the-art proteomics tools to uncover new mechanisms of protein regulation.
• Protein Biochemistry & Structural Biology: Reconstitute and analyze the non-canonical ubiquitylation machinery, defining its structure and elucidating its function using biochemical and structural methods.
• Molecular Biology & Gene Editing: Investigate the role of non-canonical ubiquitylation in cancer cell lines, exploring its impact on cellular pathways and disease progression.

If you’re highly motivated and excited to be part of this innovative research, contact Virginia (Vdecesare@dundee.ac.uk) to learn more or to apply.

Our research community thrives on the diversity of students and staff which helps to make the University of Dundee a UK university of choice for postgraduate research. We welcome applications from all talented individuals and are committed to widening access to those who have the ability and potential to benefit from higher education.

Please see our website for further details on the programme and how to apply:

Life Sciences MSc by Research MSc by Research (Postgraduate) : Study : University of Dundee

Please note before submitting your application that you must list your top three project choices in the Research Proposal section of the application form.

When you complete your application form, you should include your top 3 project choices, 2 letters of reference, uploaded under "Other Information" > "Supporting documents" and a personal statement. Failure to do so will delay your application.

Please note when submitting an application, please note our intake deadlines on the ‘how to apply’ section of our website.