Open Positions in the Veglia Lab

Postdoctoral Associate

NIH-funded postdoctoral positions in structural biology of membrane proteins are available immediately in the laboratory of Prof. G. Veglia in the Department Biochemistry, Molecular Biology & Biophysics at the University of Minnesota. The goals of this project include the structure determination of small membrane proteins in interaction with the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase by a combination of solid-state NMR methods, including Magic Angle Spinning (MAS) and Oriented solid-state NMR. These polypeptides are single-pass membrane proteins, and are involved in lethal diseases such as dilated or hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. The Veglia group works in close collaboration with the laboratory of Dr. David Thomas to combine NMR data with FRET and EPR spectroscopy. In addition to structure determination, we perform a series of biochemical and biological assays to assess protein function under NMR sample conditions. Additionally, we correlate structure with function using mutagenesis as well as cellular assays through collaborations (Dr. Robia, and Dr. Metzger). The ideal candidates need to have strong skills in molecular biology, protein expression and purification as well as biochemistry and biophysics/structural biology. Alternatively, a strong background in solid-state NMR or other spectroscopic techniques (solution NMR, Fluorescence or EPR) is also a plus. The candidate should be highly motivated, work well as a team, with excellent communication skills. Potential candidates should send a CV, a 1-2 page description of their research experience, and contact information (email) for three references to: [email protected].

Duties as Postdoctoral Associate will principally include the protein expression and purification, design, implementation, and interpretation of experiments aimed at investigating the structural dynamics of membrane proteins using a variety of solid-state NMR techniques.  The Postdoctoral Associate will be responsible for writing all manuscripts communicating experimental results.  The Postdoctoral Associate will also assist in the technical training and supervision of technicians, undergraduate, and graduate students, and in planning/drafting relevant portions of extramural grants to continue support of the project.  Finally, the Postdoctoral Associate participates actively in relevant seminars, journal clubs and symposia.

Essential Functions:

65% Experimental design and implementation - Will execute experimental procedures related to the characterization of phospholamban and Ca2+-ATPase interactions in lipid membranes by solid-state NMR spectroscopy.  Will collaborate with the current staff of the Minnesota NMR Center develop new solid-state NMR methodologies for application to studying membrane protein complexes.

20% Training/supervision of technicians and undergraduates - Teach technical staff newly developed methodologies and supervise data acquisition.

5% Participation in seminars, journal clubs and symposia - Will present at least 1 formal seminar per year (locally or at relevant national meeting) and regularly attend relevant local seminars and journal clubs.

5% Assist in planning and drafting extramural research proposals - Will work with direct supervisor to plan and draft portions of research grants relevant to newly developed methodologies.

5% Drafting scientific manuscripts - Will serve as primary author of manuscripts communicating experimental results.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications: A Ph.D. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology with at least two peer-reviewed publications.

Preferred Qualifications: 4 years of experience with solution or solid-state NMR spectroscopy, having a strong theoretical background in pulse sequences for solution-state and experience in assignment and determination of protein structure.

 

To apply, send an email to [email protected].