Polarization and functional specialization of cells

Utrecht University, Netherlands

Cell polarity – the asymmetric distribution of components and functions within a cell along a directional axis – is a fundamental property of cells that is present across the kingdoms of life. Most cells need to distribute proteins, organelles, and functions along an axis of polarity in order carry out their specialized functions and organize the 3D multicellular body. We use a combination of systems biology approaches, systematic experimental manipulation, and live-cell imaging to study how cells polarize, specialize, and become organized into functional tissues. The Boxem group is part of the Institute of Biodynamics and Biocomplexity at Utrecht University. Utrecht University is a friendly and ambitious university at the heart of an ancient city. We love to welcome new scientists to our city – a thriving cultural hub that is consistently rated as one of the world’s happiest cities. The Boxem group works closely together with the groups of Dr. Martin Harterink (also a member of NERVSPAN), Prof. Sander van den Heuvel, and Dr. Suzan Ruijtenberg who also primarily use C. elegans as a model system. You will therefore be part of an interdisciplinary and dynamic team of researchers that share many common interests and approaches.

Research team webpage: https://web.science.uu.nl/developmentalbiology/boxemlab/index.html