Prof. Yoni Haitin
Medicine
The Haitin lab is interested in deciphering the structure-function relationships governing the cellular activity of proteins. Our research is subdivided into two intertwined fields:
- deciphering the structure-function relationships governing proteins’ cellular activities
- elucidating the molecular mechanisms dictating protein function in health and disease.
Specifically, by utilizing cutting-edge biochemical and biophysical approaches, we delineate the structural mechanisms underlying the activity of two types of essential cellular enzymes: ion channels, catalyzing the movement of ions across cell membranes, and prenyltransferases, synthesizing moieties for chemical modification of proteins.
Medicine
- School of Medicine
The Haitin Lab at Tel Aviv University is seeking motivated PhD students to join our research team in investigating the structural and functional mechanisms of key enzyme families. Our lab employs cutting-edge structural, biochemical, and electrophysiological approaches to bridge the gap between protein structure and physiological function. We study both well-established and emerging enzymatic activities, with a focus on ion channels and prenyltransferases (PTs), which play essential roles in membrane transport, cellular proliferation, and post-translational modifications.
The selected student will actively contribute to projects investigating the structural principles that govern enzymatic activity and allosteric regulation. Depending on the student’s interests and expertise, they may lead one or more of the following research areas:
- Ion Channels: Exploring the function and regulation of chloride intracellular channels (CLICs) and other ion channels, focusing on structural flexibility, redox regulation, and membrane fusion using X-ray crystallography, dynamic light scattering, and fluorescence assays.
- Prenyltransferases: Investigating prenyltransferase function in lipid biosynthesis, including cis-prenyltransferase characterization via HDX-MS, fluorescence spectroscopy, and structural biology.
- Electrophysiology & Biophysics: Examining ion channel gating and inhibition using electrophysiology and structural methods.
- Structural Biology & Cryo-EM: Applying X-ray crystallography and cryo-EM to resolve protein structures.
Key Responsibilities
- Protein Production: Express and purify recombinant proteins.
- Biophysical Characterization: Conduct fluorescence spectroscopy, HDX-MS, and electrophysiology experiments.
- Data Analysis: Interpret structural and functional data for research and publications.
- Collaboration: Work with lab members and collaborators, including at the University of Washington and the Institute of Biotechnology of the Czech Academy of Sciences.
Opportunities for the Student
- Gain experience with advanced biophysical, biochemical, and fluorescence-based approaches.
- Develop skills in protein biochemistry and enzymology.
- Conduct impactful biomedical research on enzyme regulation in health and disease.
- Work in a collaborative environment with publication opportunities.
- Attend training workshops and international scientific meetings.
- Access advanced research facilities (e.g., The European Synchrotron Radiation Facility, Grenoble, France).
Required skills:
Our lab’s ongoing research is dedicated to uncovering fundamental molecular mechanisms that govern enzyme function in health and disease. We welcome applications from students with a strong background in biochemistry, molecular biology, structural biology, or related fields. Prior research experience is a plus but not required—curiosity, enthusiasm, and a willingness to learn are the most important qualifications.
We are looking forward to meeting you!
*Competitive stipends available
*Our lab is animal work-free
Note: You are invited to apply to the BRAVO PhD program for exceptional students. Admitted students are eligible for generous fellowships. Find out more about the program here.
