Postdoc in Structural Transitions Associated with Protein Self-assembly

Postdoc in Structural Transitions Associated with Protein Self-assembly

KTH - Royal Institute of Technology

Stockholm, Sweden

Job description

We are looking for a postdoctoral fellow with a strong interest in protein structure and self-assembly processes. Nature has chosen proteins as building blocks for many materials with remarkable functional and mechanical properties. Spider silk, with toughness higher than both steel and Kevlar, is one prominent example. Novel protein materials inspired by these structures could be part of the solution for a sustainable society. However, we need fundamental knowledge about how to assemble materials with properties in line with the natural products with the same efficiency and control as natural producers (e.g. spiders). In this project, we will dissect the triggering mechanisms of structural transition from alpha-helix to beta-sheets in spider silk proteins (spidroins). The project will include investigations of the thermodynamical and kinetic principles of alpha-helix to beta-sheet transitions of proteins as function of pH and ionic strength. A major part concerns how interfaces trigger structural switches in proteins. This will be studied by vibrational sum frequency generation spectroscopy.

The postdoctoral fellow is expected to have a leading role in the project and take the responsibility for running and further developing it. The position provides great opportunities for an ambitious researcher to develop skills within state-of-the-art biophysical methods such as vibrational sum frequency generation spectroscopy and NMR.

Qualifications

Requirements

• A doctoral degree or an equivalent foreign degree in a relevant subject area, e.g. (bio)physical chemistry, biotechnology or structural biology. This eligibility requirement must be met no later than the time the employment decision is made.
• Demonstrated scientific skill in the form of publications in journals.
• High degree of independence in the design and implementation of research.
• Good ability to collaborate within a research group.
• Significant practical experience of laboratory work using techniques that are relevant for the project.
• Good ability to express oneself orally and in writing in English as it is required in day to day work.

Preferred qualifications

• A doctoral degree or an equivalent foreign degree, obtained within the last three years prior to the application deadline.
• Experience of laboratory work with structural characterization of proteins.
• Practical experience with vibrational sum frequency generation spectroscopy.
• Well-documented skills in scientific writing.
• Experience of teaching or training students in laboratory work.
• Awareness of diversity and equal opportunity issues, with specific focus on gender equality.