Name and Surname of the Supervisor: Suji Kim
Institution (Company), Department: Department of Single Cell Analysis, Institute of Biotechnology, Life Sciences Center, Vilnius University
Preliminary Topic: Development of long-read sequencing-based method for non-coding RNA analysis
Short Description of the Internship Work: Recent advances of short-read RNA sequencing have enabled identification of cellular transcriptomes. However, most current methods rely on poly(A) tail capture and therefore provide limited information of non-coding transcriptomes. Moreover, highly abundant ribosomal RNA (rRNA) can dominate total RNA samples and restrict the detection of less abundant transcripts. Combining efficient rRNA depletion with long-read sequencing could provide a more comprehensive view of the transcriptome.
The aim of this project is to develop and optimize a long-read total RNA sequencing method for improved detection and characterization of non-coding RNAs. The work will include optimization of key steps in the long-read sequencing workflow, and evaluation of their effects on transcript recovery and long-read sequencing performance.
The student will gain hands-on experience in working with cells and nucleic acids, as well as using molecular biology approaches, including microfluidic technologies and sequencing methods. Throughout the project, the student will be encouraged to develop and test their own ideas, work independently, and share their results to the scientific community.
Useful links: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41587-023-01815-7
Qualification Requirements (Degree): BSc
Application Deadline: 2026-10-16
Additional Comments: Preference will be given to candidates who can commit to the project for at least two study years.