The European Training Network DNARepairMan aims to provide the next generation of young scientists with a unique and innovative interdisciplinary training in cutting-edge biophysical research methodologies to address central questions in biology with relevance for human health. This is motivated by the understanding that the future development of novel targeted therapies and antimicrobials will rely precisely on understanding the molecular and mechanistic details underlying disease.
Research within DNARepairMan
Our focus on the process of DNA repair arises from its essential role in maintaining genome stability. In this process multiple proteins collaborate as large molecular machines to detect and repair very rare errors that occur in DNA. These evolutionarily-conserved processes are of fundamental importance, and there is an increasing awareness that targeting of DNA repair pathways could also be useful in the development of personalized anti-cancer therapies and new antimicrobials.
The importance of mechanistic understanding of DNA repair pathways has further been recognized by the award of the 2015 Nobel Chemistry Prize to three pioneers in the field of DNA repair. Nevertheless, even today important questions remain as to how the relevant enzyme complexes collaborate and assemble to robustly coordinate repair. Recent developments of highly sophisticated biophysical and structural technologies now enable the analysis of these transient systems at unprecedented resolution. DNARepairMan will capitalize on the virtuous cycle between new technologies, new questions and new insights.
Training within DNARepairMan
This Training Network uniquely brings together highly complementary biological, chemical and physical research programs each situated at the forefront of their respective research fields, providing a cooperative and creative atmosphere that will allow young researchers to grow and gain expertise by training-through-research. All young researchers will enter local PhD programs, will extensively collaborate with and work in other participant's laboratories and will receive thorough training and supervision within the Network. By incorporating four technology-driven companies, including a business development unit, the consortium contributes to and benefits from improvements in and transfer of methodology, instrumentation and product development from academia to industry and vice versa. Furthermore, through direct contacts with the creative sector, young researchers will integrate, translate and disseminate their research findings and new standards to the larger scientific community, to industry and to society.
