Postdoc Position on the Integrative Structural Biology of Human Nicotinic Receptors

Postdoc Position on the Integrative Structural Biology of Human Nicotinic Receptors

Institut Pasteur

Paris, France

Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) are neurotransmitter-gated ion channels playing a major role in the nervous system. Their dysfunction is linked to severe psychiatric and neurological diseases such as nicotine addiction, schizophrenia or Alzheimer’s disease. Their architecture, allosteric mechanisms and pharmacology have been extensively studied over the last decades. However, the intracellular regulation of neuronal nAChRs is barely described. Yet, to achieve their physiological role, neuronal nAChRs are targeted to specific sub-cellular compartments through interaction with cytoskeleton-associated or synaptic proteins, and their function is further tightly regulated by intracellular factors. While key protein partners have been identified for other receptors such as the glycine, the GABAA or the glutamate receptors, little is known about the interactome of neuronal nAChRs.

We are looking for a highly motivated post-doctoral fellow to conduct an integrative structural biology approach to identify and investigate the complexes formed by neuronal nAChRs with their intracellular partners. The project combines cellular biology, biochemistry, and cryo-electron microscopy.

Expected profile:

• The applicant should have a PhD in biochemistry or structural biology.
• The applicant should have a strong experience in cryo-EM or crystallography AND/OR in eukaryotic or membrane protein biochemistry.
• The applicant should be motivated to apply for fellowship to extend the 1-year funding available
• The applicant should demonstrate her/his ability to work in collaboration with other team members.

Apply Now