Post-doctoral fellow in physical chemistry - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Subject description

Biophysical chemistry involves research directed towards molecular questions in biological systems. The experimental and theoretical methods used often have their origins in physics. The biophysical chemistry research within the divisions of Physical Chemistry and Biochemistry and Structural Biology (Department of Chemistry), include experimental and theoretical research on soft and biological matter. Significant work is devoted to protein self-assembly and co-assembly and interactions with other biomolecules.

The current project is focussed on a class of chaperone proteins that through interactions increase the apparent solubility of other proteins (clients) and thus prevent precipitation, often through amyloid fibril formation. The aim is to understand the fundamentals of chaperone self-assembly as well as chaperone-client interactions and co-assembly.

Work duties

The main duties involved in a post-doctoral posistion is to conduct research. Teaching may also be included, but up to no more than 20% of working hours. The position shall include the opportunity for three weeks of training in higher education teaching and learning.

The project includes experimental and theoretical studies of the molecular mechanism  of supression of amyloid formation by chaperone proteins and other model compounds.

The experimental studies will typically include the use of several state-of-the art techniques available in our laboratory such as small and wide angle X-ray scattering (SAXS/WAXS), dynamic light scattering, fluorescence microscopy and fluorescence correlation spectroscopy, Cryo-transmission electron microscopy, circular dichroism. 

Qualification requirements

Appointment to a post-doctoral position requires that the applicant has a PhD, or an international degree deemed equivalent to a PhD, within the subject of the position, completed no more than three years before the date of employment decision. Under special circumstances, the doctoral degree can have been completed earlier.

The project is of cross disciplinary nature and requires a background in both molecular biology/biochemistry and physical chemistry. A documented experience from working with peptide aggregation and its inhibition, and amyloid forming proteins is required.

Documented experience from, and competence in the following experimental techniques are required:

• Small and wide angle X-ray scattering
• Dynamic light scattering
• Fluoresence microscopy

Documented experience and competence in the following experimental techniques are considered additional merits:

• Cryo-TEM
• Optical spectroscopy including circular dichroism spectroscopy

Additional requirements

• Being fluent in written and spoken english.

Assessment criteria and other qualifications

This is a career development position primarily focused on research. The position is intended as an initial step in a career, and the assessment of the applicants will primarily be based on their research qualifications and potential as researchers.

Particular emphasis will be placed on research skills within the subject.

For appointments to a post-doctoral position, the following shall form the assessment criteria:

• A good ability to develop and conduct high quality research.

Additional assessment criteria:

• The required experience and competence in the experimental techniques listed above.
• The required experience from working with peptide aggregation and its inhibition, and amyloid forming proteins.

Consideration will also be given to good collaborative skills, drive and independence, and how the applicant’s experience and skills complement and strengthen ongoing research within the department, and how they stand to contribute to its future development.

Terms of employment

This is a full-time, fixed-term employment of a maximum of 2 years. The period of employment is determined in accordance with the agreement “Avtal om tidsbegränsad anställning som postdoktor” (“Agreement on fixed-term employment as a post-doctoral fellow”) between Lund University, SACO-S and OFR/S, dated 1st February 2022.

Instructions on how to apply

Applications shall be written in English and be compiled into a PDF-file containing:

• résumé/CV, including a list of publications,
• a general description of past research and future research interests (no more than three pages),
• contact information of at least two references,
• copy of the doctoral degree certificate, and other certificates/grades that you wish to be considered.