Ubiquitination is a cellular process that modifies proteins and determine their fate and function. While traditionally studied on proteins, emerging evidence suggests that ubiquitin can also act on other cellular molecules, including glycogen, lipids, and small metabolites, raising the possibility that its reach extends into previously unexplored areas of cell biology. Proper regulation of diverse biomolecules is essential for cellular health, and its disruption can contribute to several diseases.
In this project, the student will explore the potential regulation of nucleic acids (DNA/RNA) by ubiquitin. Building on the lab’s ubiquitin-focused research program and recent work (Jochem et al., Nature, 2026), the project will develop methods to detect modified oligonucleotides and establish biochemical approaches to enrich protein–nucleic acid complexes. Students will gain experience in mammalian cell culture, protein biochemistry, enzymatic assays, protein purification, and microscopy, contributing to new understanding of ubiquitin biology in cells.
