Thesis work, 60 credits - Investigating the Role of ANT1 and ANT2 in Lung Epithelial Cell Function

Do you have a background in cellular biology and a passion for understanding chronic respiratory diseases? Are you eager to explore the molecular mechanisms that regulate cell viability and stress resistance? If so, we want to hear from you! 

About AstraZeneca: 

AstraZeneca is a global, science-led, patient-centred biopharmaceutical company focusing on discovering, developing, and commercialising prescription medicines for some of the world’s most serious diseases. But we’re more than a global leading pharmaceutical company. At AstraZeneca, we're dedicated to being a Great Place to Work and empowering employees to push the boundaries of science and fuel their entrepreneurial spirit.  

About the Opportunity: 

As a Thesis Worker at AstraZeneca, you’ll find an environment that’s full of unique opportunities and exciting challenges. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to pursue your areas of interest whilst equally developing a broad skillset and knowledge base to get the best out of your experience. You’ll be working on meaningful projects to make an impact and deliver real value for our patients and our business. 

Thesis work description:  

This master’s thesis focuses on ADP/ATP translocase 1 (ANT1, SLC25A4) and ADP/ATP translocase 2 (ANT2, SLC25A5), bidirectional transporter proteins located in the inner mitochondrial membrane. These proteins play a crucial role in transporting ADP into the mitochondria for ATP synthesis and exporting ATP to the cytoplasm. Recent studies have highlighted the importance of ANT1 and ANT2 in regulating the energetic state of lung epithelial cells, with implications for cellular resistance to stressors linked to chronic respiratory diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). 

Key Objectives: 

• Establish Overexpression and Knockdown Protocols - Develop and optimize conditions for overexpressing (OE) and knocking down (KD) ANT1 and ANT2 in airway epithelial cell lines. 
• Conduct Functional Studies - Perform functional assays to measure metabolic activity and cell viability following ANT1/ANT2 OE/KD, assessing their roles in cellular health. 
• Analyze Senescence Markers - Examine the expression of senescence markers using techniques such as real-time qRT-PCR, western blotting, and imaging methods to understand the impact on cellular aging processes. 
• Compare Expression Levels in Primary Cells - Evaluate baseline expression levels of ANT1 and ANT2 in primary airway epithelial cells obtained from patients with chronic respiratory diseases versus healthy donors. 
• Investigate Effects in Primary Cells - Study the functional consequences of ANT1 and ANT2 OE/KD in primary airway epithelial cells, potentially incorporating differentiation methods in transwell plates at the air-liquid interface and stimulation with disease-relevant stimuli. 

• Essential Requirements: 
• Ongoing Master’s studies in relevant discipline 
• Previous practical experience in culture of cells using good sterile technique 
• Skills in any of the methods described above is a plus 
• Scientific curiosity as well as good communication and documentation skills are critical 
  

So, what’s next?  

Apply today and take the chance to be part of making a difference, making connections, and gaining the tools and experience to open doors and fulfil your potential. We can´t wait to hear from you!  

We welcome your application as soon as possible, but ahead of the scheduled closing date 27th April 2025. In the event that we identify suitable candidates ahead of the scheduled closing date, we reserve the right to withdraw the vacancy earlier than published.  

AstraZeneca embraces diversity and equality of opportunity. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse team representing all backgrounds, with as wide a range of perspectives as possible, and harnessing industry-leading skills. We believe that the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. We welcome and consider applications to join our team from all qualified candidates, regardless of their characteristics. We comply with all applicable laws and regulations on non-discrimination in employment (and recruitment), as well as work authorisation and employment eligibility verification requirements.