Postdoctoral Research Associates (2 posts)

Instruct-ERIC; Oxford; Hybrid; GBP 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Oxford invites applications for two Postdoctoral Research Associates to study the Tat protein transporter. The project aims to determine high-resolution structures of TatC in complex with other Tat components and to perform related biochemical analyses.

Applicants should have a PhD in Biochemistry or Structural Biology or a related discipline, with expertise in protein purification, structural methods, and membrane protein biochemistry; the appointment is for up to 48 months

Qualifications

• PhD in Biochemistry or Structural Biology or related field.
• Experience in protein purification and characterisation.
• Expertise in high-resolution structural methods (X-ray crystallography or equivalent).
• Experience working with membrane proteins.
• Biochemical/biophysical analysis of protein interactions; protein transport biochemistry.

Responsibilities

• Determine high-resolution structures of TatC in complex with Tat components.
• Conduct biochemical analyses of Tat complexes and interactions.
• Collaborate with senior researchers to advance Tat transport studies.

Skills

Protein purification

Biochemical analysis

Biophysical analysis

Membrane proteins

Protein-protein interactions

Education

PhD in Biochemistry or Structural Biology or related

Job description

Jobs in Structural Biology and Related Fields

Postdoctoral Research Associates (2 posts)

University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom

The University of Oxford is seeking to appoint two Research Associates to undertake structural studies of the Tat protein transporter. The Tat system is a highly unusual protein transport pathway that moves folded proteins across the bacterial cytoplasmic membrane [Nature Rev.Microbiol. (2012) 10: 483]. The Tat system is required for the virulence of many bacterial pathogens. We have recently determined the structure of the core Tat transporter component TatC by X-ray crystallography [Nature (2012) 492: 210]. This project aims to build upon this success by determining high resolution structures of TatC in complex with other Tat components and with substrate targeting peptides. The project will also encompass related biochemical analysis of Tat complexes.

Applicants must have an interest in structural biology and should possess, or expect to shortly obtain, a PhD in Biochemistry or Structural Biology or a related discipline. Applicants must have expertise in protein purification and characterisation as well as expertise in at least one of the following: X-ray crystallography or other high resolution structural method; working with membrane proteins; biochemical and biophysical analysis of protein-protein interactions; biochemistry of protein transport.

These full-time posts are available immediately, working jointly with Professor Ben Berks in the Department of Biochemistry and Professor Susan Lea in the Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, South Parks Road, Oxford. The positions are funded by the Medical Research Council (MRC) for up to 48 months in the first instance.

For further general information tel: [phone], quoting reference number (BR/574).

The closing date for applications is 12.00 midday on Friday 25 October 2013, with interviews for shortlisted candidates as soon as possible thereafter.