Associate researcher in structural and functional characterization of P-type ATPases

Description of the workplace

The membrane protein structural biology group at the Department of Experimental Medical Science is at the forefront of its field. With this position, we aim to deepen our work in understanding the mechanisms of various P-type ATPases. The research group is led by senior lecturer Pontus Gourdon, and we are now seeking a motivated associate researcher (biträdande forskare) with experience in cryo-electron microscopy. Here is a selection of articles recently published by the group (see also tinyurl.com/vc2dsamz):

• Li et al (2025) Nature Structural & Molecular Biology (32):491
• Li et al (2024) Nature Communications 15(1):9605
• Augestad et al (2024) Nature 633:704
• Guo et al (2024) Nature Communications 15(1):2690
• Zhang et al (2022) Nature Communications 13(1):7483
• Salustros et al (2022) Nature Communications 13(1):5121
• Li et al (2022) Nature Communications 13(1):4339
• Wiuf et al (2022) Science Advances 8, eabn4331 

We offer 

Lund University is a governmental authority, which means you get special benefits, generous holidays and a favourable occupational pension. We also have a flexible time agreement that creates good conditions for a balance between work and leisure.

Read more on the university's website about being employed at Lund University, Work with us.

Work duties and responsibilities

The overarching goal of this research program is to uncover the fundamental molecular principles and determinants that orchestrate membrane protein function, particularly how interaction(s) with subunits, auxiliary proteins and/or ions/small molecules (i.e., ‘complexes’) allow or modulate membrane protein function. The intention is to study such phenomena approaching P-type ATPases in general with a focus on transition-metal transporting class IB P-type (PIB-) ATPases, which are cardinal for ion homeostasis. To accomplish this ambitious goal, we will exploit a multidisciplinary strategy centred on structural biological and biochemical methods. The recruited person will perform experimental research with a focus on cryo-EM to understand how P-type ATPases are regulated in normal and pathophysiology.

Qualifications

Requirements for the position are:

• You must have a PhD degree or equivalent in a relevant field, for example biochemistry.
• You should have previously published papers in a peer-reviewed journal. At least one of these articles should focus on structural biology in the class IB P-type (PIB-) ATPase field, the research field of the position.
• You should have experience in cloning, production, and purification of membrane proteins, preferably targeting several different membrane protein families.
• You should have experience with single-particle cryo-EM, preparation and freezing of protein samples on grids, data collection, data processing, and structural analysis.
• You should have experience with functional analysis of membrane proteins
• You should have experience in interdisciplinary collaborations.
• You should have excellent proficiency in English, both spoken and written.

Meritorious for the position are:

• It is desirable if you have extensive experience with the following software: CryoSPARC, Phenix, Coot, Chimera, and Pymol.
• It is desirable if you have published in a peer-reviewed journal where you are the first author. 
• It is desirable if you are self-driven.
• It is desirable have good teamwork skills.

Terms 

The position is a fixed-term employment for three months at 100%, starting on May 19th 2025, or by agreement.

Interviews will be conducted via video as soon as possible, after the deadline for applications. 

How to apply 

Application for the position should be made through the university's recruitment system. The application should include a cover letter explaining why you are interested in the position and how the position matches your qualifications. The application should also include a CV, degree certificate or equivalent, and any other documents you wish to submit (copies of transcripts, reference contact details, recommendation letters, etc.).