Chromosome Segregation during Eukaryotic Cell Divisions

A 2025 Crick PhD project with Frank Uhlmann.

In the Chromosome Segregation Laboratory, we investigate molecular mechanisms that underpin faithful chromosome segregation during cell division. We use yeast as a model organism to study the contribution of structural chromosomal proteins to sister chromatid cohesion and chromosome condensation, essential processes that ensure faithful segregation of centimetre-long chromosomal DNA molecules within micrometre-sized cells. We also investigate how kinases and phosphatases of the cell cycle control network orchestrate the ordered progression through the successive stages of genome duplication and chromosome segregation. We have reached a stage where many of the key chromosome and cell cycle players have been identified and our focus turns to unravelling the fascinating mechanisms by which these molecular machines accomplish their tasks.

Below are two reviews (1. and 2.) from our lab on these subjects, as well as three examples of research publications from PhD students who recently graduated (3. – 5.).

Candidate background

This project requires a strong interest in molecular mechanisms that underpin fundamental cellular processes. Techniques range from molecular genetics, genomics and proteomics to protein biochemistry and biophysics.