J Chem Biol (2014) 7:37–42 DOI 10.1007/s12154-013-0107-4

JOCB BULLETIN

JOCB Bulletin Published online: 11 December 2013 # Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2013

Thanks once again to all our readers who have submitted items for inclusion in this section. Can I remind you that we advertise readers’ items at the interface of the physical and life sciences free of charge including illustrations and colour. Any contributions that might be of interest to researchers in the Chemical Biology field concerning studentships, job vacancies courses or conferences, book reviews or news items would be most welcome. Please send to Dr C A Rosser 1 North Parade Derby DE1 3AY Email [email protected]

GRADUATE STUDIES IN BILBAO, SPAIN

The International Max Planck Research School for Molecular and Cellular Life Sciences, jointly conducted by Munich based Max Planck Institutes and Universities, is an internationally recognised centre of scientific and educational excellence. More than 60 distinguished group leaders actively participate in its PhD programme and offer challenging and cutting-edge PhD projects in the following areas:

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Biochemistry Neurobiology Cell Biology Molecular Medicine Structural Biology

Doctoral students are fully integrated in international teams of scientists providing ample access to expertise and support in an interdisciplinary setting. Laboratory work is supplemented by seminars, summer schools, elective courses, career development training and participation in national or international conferences. Munich, as one of the leading German research areas in life sciences, offers a unique mixture of academic and urban lifestyle spiced with Bavarian tradition.

The University of the Basque Country offers Master and PhD degrees in Molecular Biology and Biomedicine. The 1-year Master degree (60 ECTS) consists of lecture courses (30 ECTS) and a research project (30 ECTS).

Highly qualified candidates with a deep commitment to basic and/or clinical research are invited to apply. Applicants should hold an MSc (or an equivalent degree) with a strong background in biological sciences, biochemistry, biophysics, biotechnology or a related discipline. Successful candidates will be supported with a generous PhD fellowship covering living expenses and tuition.

No knowledge of Spanish required. Info at: www.masterbiologiamolecular.ehu.es

For more information and online application please visit our website: www.imprs-ls.de

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J Chem Biol (2014) 7:37–42

CoMPLEX is UCL’s centre for interdisciplinary research in the life sciences. The 4-year interdisciplinary MRes + MPhil/PhD programme in Modelling Biological Complexity run by CoMPLEX, trains students to work at the interface between mathematics, engineering, physics, life and medical sciences. The programme is designed for students who wish to develop the skills to apply mathematical, computational and physical science techniques to real biological and medical problems. In this integrated programme, the first year is an MRes year during which students are trained in biological complexity, mathematical modelling of biological systems and advanced experimental techniques. Students will be involved in a range of interdisciplinary research projects that are dual supervised by one academic from mathematical/physical sciences and the other from the life and medical sciences. Link: http://www.ucl.ac.uk/complex E-mail: [email protected]

Supervisor: Prof. J Trinick Department: Faculty of Biological Sciences Deadline: Applications accepted all year round Structure and function studies of isolated Z-discs from muscle The Z-disc is the anchoring structure for the ends of thin (actin) filaments and transmits contractile force between adjacent muscle sarcomeres. The primary linkages between thin filament ends of opposite polarity here are Z-bridges composed of α-actinin. In addition to have this purely mechanical function, the Z-disc is now known to contain ~40 different proteins and to have several other functions, particularly stress sensing into nuclear and proteolytic signalling pathways involving muscle growth and degradation. Because it has so far only been studied in the electron microscope in thin sections, the structure of the Z-disc is known only in outline, to a resolution of 4–5 nm, whereas ~2 nm resolution is required to recognise protein shapes and accurately dock crystal structures.

To obtain 3D models with improved resolution, this project will study isolated Z-discs from both invertebrate and vertebrate muscle, including cardiac. Isolated Zdiscs are also valuable for compositional studies, such as monitoring gain and loss of components that are transient in vivo. In addition to its fundamental importance in biology, this project will provide an excellent training in modern electron microscopy (cryotomography, image processing) as well as a wide variety of biochemical methods. Link: http://www.astbury.leeds.ac.uk/people/staffpage. php?StaffID=JT Email: [email protected]

Post-doctoral Training Fellow–Cancer Bioinformatics Molecular Pathology, The Institute of Cancer Research www.icr.ac.uk We seek a Post-doctoral Training Fellow to work on machine learning in cancer research. Our lab develops novel approaches that combine statistical modelling with pathological image analysis to generate robust and objective predictions of pathological outcome in patients. Our goals are to foster new development of statistical applications in biology and pathology, and to develop novel therapeutic strategies through working with the therapeutic unit at ICR. In particular, our lab focuses on developing image processing tools for pathological images to revolutionize the field of pathology, turning qualitative observations into quantitative measurements (Yuan et al. Sci Trans Med 2012). This allows us to then catalogue both rich ‘omics’ data and pathological features to draw on the power of both molecular and pathological diagnosis. The responsibility of this post holder is to develop machine learning methodologies for large sets of in-house data including large clinical trials. The successful applicant will enjoy working in the interdisciplinary fields and collaborating with our internal and external biology, clinical, and pathology collaborators. The post holder will excel in coordinating between programming and exploring medical research areas through interacting with these collaborations, be a fast learner, and is motivated to explore new scientific subjects.

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Research Associate/Senior Research Associate: Photoacoustic Imaging Instrumentation UCL Medical Physics and Bioengineering, University College London www.ucl.ac.uk/hr/jobs The appointment will be full time on UCL Grade 7. The salary range will be Grade 7 (Research Associate) £32, 375–£39,132 per annum; Grade 8 (Senior Research Associate) £40,216–£47,441 per annum, inclusive of London Allowance. Applications are invited for a postdoctoral research position to develop novel photoacoustic imaging instrumentation for guiding minimally invasive medical procedures. The project involves developing a new imaging system based upon a clinical ultrasound scanner and conducting in vivo imaging studies. It offers an opportunity to undertake translational research within an internationally leading research group, in close collaboration with clinical partners at local hospitals.

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mammalian tissue culture and advanced imaging. Suitable applicants would include those with a background in developmental or cell biology. Fixed-term contract for 36 months The appointment will be made on the Grade 6 scale, currently £31,331, per annum, plus £2,323 London Allowance per annum. For an informal discussion of the post please contact Jeremy Green via email at [email protected] Further details and application packs are available on the College’s website at www.kcl.ac.uk/jobs. All correspondence should clearly state the job title and reference number R6/NCC/1037/13-MM. If you have any queries please contact your Recruitment Co-ordinator at [email protected]

This post is funded for 3 years in the first instance. Further funding to support the post may be available. A physicist or engineer at postdoctoral (or equivalent) level is sought. Sound experimental skills in ultrasound and electrical engineering/applied physics, and proficiency with programming in C and Matlab are required. Experience with some or all of the following would be advantageous: ultrasound signal processing and transducer arrays, biomedical optics, optical spectroscopy, pulsed lasers and in vivo ultrasound or optical measurements. Creativity, self motivation and a willingness to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team are essential.

Biophysical Society 58th Annual Meeting February 15–19, 2014 Moscone Center San Francisco, California Topics include:

Research Associate Craniofacial Development & Stem Cell Biology, King’s College London www.kcl.ac.uk Applications are sought for a post-doctoral research position working in the laboratory of Prof. Jeremy Green in the Department of Craniofacial Development, Guy’s Campus at King’s College London. This 3-year BBSRC-funded project is to find out how cells drive epithelial bending involved in development of teeth, hair follicles, salivary glands and other organs. This project will use advanced microscopy and image analysis to study this important motif of development. It will involve mouse embryology, immunohistochemistry,

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Force Sensing in Muscle Myosin Motors in Vitro and in Cells Regulation of Cytoskeletal Motors Membrane Transport in Fatty Acid Synthesis and Obesity Molecular Basis of Voltage Dependence Mechanosening in Eukaryotes Molecular Basis for Regulation of Ca2+ Channels Structure of Membrane Fusion Biophysics of Genetic Switches RNA Assemblies and DNA Origami Structural Dynamics of Molecular Machines Applications of Quantum Mechanics to Biophysical Problems Celebrating 100 Years of Crystallography: X-Rays Are Photons Too

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J Chem Biol (2014) 7:37–42

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Biophysics of Cell Division and Spatial Relationships Force Generation in Cell and Tissue Networks Cellular Stress, Protein Folding, and Disease Biophysics of Personalized Medicine Stochasticity in Cellular Processes Liquid Protein Assemblies in Spatial Organization and Ultrasensitive Signaling in Cells & Molecular Self-Assembly–from in Vitro to Cellular Systems & Biophysics in Industry: Putting Evolution in Practice

The functions of cells that lead to the exquisite processes of organismal development rely on communication. Signals are necessary for cells to communicate and cooperate with each other, alter their programs of gene expression and fates, and reorganise themselves into a diversity of shapes and sizes. Most of these signalling pathways travel across cell membranes. Due to the advances in the analytical tools, which can be applied to membrane morphology, new opportunities exist now to understand these signalling mechanisms. Topics:

12th Chemistry Conference for Young Scientists 27–28 February 2014, Blankenberge, Belgium. During ChemCYS young academic researchers will have the opportunity to present the results of their research through an oral or a poster presentation in English. The conference topics are organized in parallel sessions with common plenary lectures. The best oral and poster presentation of each session will be awarded by a jury of experts. The focus of this conference is quite broad with its aim to span the whole spectrum of chemistry: & & & & & &

Analytical and Environmental Chemistry Biochemistry and -technology Inorganic Chemistry Advanced Materials Chemistry Organic and Medicinal Chemistry Physical and Theoretical Chemistry

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Membrane trafficking Mechanism of membrane fusion and fission Role of membrane domains in fission and fusion Phosphoinositide signalling Lipid signalling Lipid phosphatase signalling Lipid mass spectrometry of lipids Autophagy Phosphoinositide- dependent proteins Advanced electron microscopy

Proceedings (invited speakers) will be published in Biochemical Society Transactions . Link: http://www.biochemistry.org/Conferences/AllConferences/ tabid/379/View/Conference/Filter/4/MeetingNo/SA156/ Default.aspx

The organizing committee is happy to announce that this edition of ChemCYS will be officially endorsed by the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) and the European Association for Chemical and Molecular Sciences (EuCheMS). Link: http://www.chemcys.be/

Membrane, Morphology and Function 5–8 May 2014 Hotel del Camerlengo, Fara San Martino, Abruzzo, Italy

Meeting background

Lipidomics Impact on Cell Biology, Inflammation and Metabolic Disease May 13–14, 2014, La Jolla, CA

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With the development and evolution of sophisticated mass spectrometers linked to highly efficient liquid chromatography systems, individual molecular species of lipids can now be isolated and identified, allowing us to begin to understand lipid metabolism and the treatment of lipid-based diseases (atherosclerosis and inflammatory disease as well as arthritis, cancer, diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease). The goal of this meeting is to bring together biological and biomedical scientists in a wide range of fields to share new findings and methods in the broader lipidomics field and to explore joint efforts to extend the use of these powerful new methods to new applications. Presentations will provide an excellent introduction for scientists new to these methods, and are sure to be of interest to lipidomics veterans to learn about latest techniques and research results. The meeting program features the following sessions: & & & & & & &

Cancer Eicosanoids and the Inflammatory Response Lipid Interactions with Membrane Proteins Lipidomics and Metabolic Disease Lipidomics of Microorganisms and the Biodome Macrophage Biology and Cardiovascular Disease Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

3rd European Symposium on Microbial Lipids: Model Organisms and Biodiversity 28–31 May 2014, Hamburg, Germany Recent developments in genetics, lipidomics and other techniques enlarged the amount of eukaryotic and prokaryotic microbial species under investigation and broadened the basis of lipid data available for these organisms. Therefore, the aim of the workshop Microbial Lipids: Structure and Function of Cellular Surfaces is to bring together the knowledge about the classical model organisms with that about the diversity of microbial life.

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23–27 June 2014, Aberdeen, Scotland Dedicated to the memory of Professor Alan Garton We are delighted to welcome the 55th ICBL Conference to Aberdeen in 2014. The event will include a range of sessions including plenary lectures, invited symposium speakers, selected oral communications, hot topics sessions and themed poster sessions. Topics Include: & & & & & & &

Lipid Modulators of Inflammation and Immunity Modified Fatty Acids and Lipids Endocannabinoids: Synthesis and Function Phytolipids–A Vision for the Future? Lipidomics–What’s Next? Lipids in Whole Body Systems Membrane Lipid Trafficking

Euro Fed Lipid is a federation of 13 scientific associations concerned with Lipids, Fats and Oils. The federation represents 2000 individuals and companies. Its mission is the furthering of lipid science and technology and the cooperation and exchange of ideas between scientists and technologists at a European level. The activities of Euro Fed Lipid include the organisation of international congresses at varying venues, the coorganisation of the annual fair “oils + fats” and the publishing of the “European Journal of Lipid Science and Technology”.

Main Topics and Keynote Lectures: & & & & & & &

Lipids of Yeast and Fungi Pathogens Take up and Metabolize Host Lipids Archaeal Ether Lipids Lipids of Cyanobacteria and Chloroplasts Lipids of Algae Lipids of Bacteria Lipid Signalling

http://www.eurofedlipid.org/meetings/hamburg2014/ index.php

Main Topics/Keynote Lectures: – Lipids in Animal Science – Biotechnology and Enzyme Technology – Molecular and Cellular Biology of Lipids in Health and Disease – Lipids in Nutrition – Lipidomics, Analytics, Authenticity, Imaging – Marine Lipids – Microbial Lipids

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Lipid Chemistry and Oleochemistry Mediterranean Oils and Fats Palm Oil Physical Chemistry, Lipid Biophysics and Formulations Plant Lipids, Oil Seeds, Plant Breeding Processing Lipid Oxidation and Antioxidants Milk and Dairy Products in Human Nutrition Innovation in Industry Young Scientists Session

Link: www.eurofedlipid.org/index.php

Visual Strategies: A practical guide to graphics for scientists and engineers Felice C Frankel and Angela H DePace Yale University Press ISBN 978-0300176445 List price US$35 In addition to planning and conducting experiments, scientists must be able to clearly and succinctly present their data in multiple formats. Printed research articles have always been accompanied by static figures while live presentations present the opportunity for animations. Online publication also allows the publication of data in interactive, exploratory formats, which is especially suited to large datasets generated by high throughput screening, imaging and ‘-omics’ technologies. Scientists are increasingly being expected to produce professional quality, informative graphics aimed at a wide range of audiences, including undergraduate students, fellow scientists, funding bodies and the general public. However, as the authors point out, the typical researcher’s training rarely includes the development of the skills needed to craft graphics. In recent years there has been an explosion of interest in techniques to portray scientific data in a scientifically accurate and aesthetically pleasing manner. Visual Strategies guides the reader through a series of real, published examples taken from

journals like Science, Nature, Annual Reviews, Cell, PNAS and the New England Journal of Medicine, pointing out good examples of layout, use of colour, data abstraction and labelling. The first section deals with three ‘types’ of scientific graphic– those that illustrate form and structure, those that illustrate processes over space and time and those that require the reader to compare and contrast. Double-page spreads are used effectively to show a ‘before’ image and a reworked ‘after’ graphic which incorporates suggestions for improvement based on the layout, the message of the figure, the use of colour and data layering, and further ideas to simplify and strip out unnecessary clutter. The next section contains ‘Case Studies’, a series of interviews with various researchers highlighting the process of conceiving, designing, implementing and revising a graphic. Evidently, collaborations with visual artists can be incredibly fruitful–firstly by forcing the researcher to clarify their own ideas in order to communicate them to an outsider and secondly by aiding the process of design and refinement that result in a maximally effective figure. The third section introduces ‘Interactive Graphics’, and is best explored in tandem with the book’s website. Interactive graphics have developed from early days of simply providing highresolution, zoomable images to the use of user-controlled animations to embedded objects (for example crystal structures) which can be manipulated by the user, to ever more complex representations of data generated by disparate scientific fields–in some cases involving custom-designed data representations and user interfaces, refined over a period of months or years, and explicitly designed to be able to incorporate new data. Visual Strategies is a fantastic (and beautifully presented) resource for any scientist interested in producing clearer figures. It sits in between the gospel of data presentation, The Visual Display of Quantitative Information by Edward R Tufte, and purely aesthetic volumes like Information is Beautiful by Eric McCandless, and is a worthy addition to any scientist’s bookshelf. More in-depth discussions of data presentation, visual representation, layout, use of colour and labelling and related matters can be found in the excellent Nature Methods column, ‘Points of View’ by Bang Wong. Nirmal Jethwa Graduate Student Cell Biophysics Laboratory Cancer Research UK London Research Institute

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