Postdoc in structural transitions in protein self-assembly

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) with the aim to design processing protocols to achieve the corresponding molecular switches in proteins from large-scale agricultural resources.  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 in bulk solutions, of how air-water and hydrophobic solid-water interfaces trigger structural switches in proteins and peptides, and how conformational changes are propagated within spidroins. 

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 NMR and vibrational sum frequency generation spectroscopy.

The project is a collaboration between the research groups of Christofer Lendel, My Hedhammar, and Eric Tyrode. 

What we offer

• A position at a leading technical university that generates knowledge and skills for a sustainable future
• Engaged and ambitious colleagues along with a creative, international and dynamic working environment
• Work in Stockholm, in close proximity to nature
• Help to relocate and be settled in Sweden and at KTH

Read more about what it's like to work at KTH and our benefits.

Qualifications

Requirements

• A doctoral degree or an equivalent foreign degree in a relevant subject area, e.g. biotechnology, (bio)physical chemistry 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, since it is required in the daily work.

Preferred qualifications

• A doctoral degree or an equivalent foreign degree, obtained within the last three years prior to the application deadline.

It will be considered as strong merits if you also have:

• Experience of laboratory work with structural characterization of proteins.
• Practical experience of recombinant production and purification of proteins.
• Practical experience with one vibrational sum frequency generation spectroscopy or NMR.
• Well-documented skill in scientific writing.
• Experience in teaching or training students in laboratory work.

Great emphasis will be placed on personal skills.

Trade union representatives

Contact information to trade union representatives.

To apply for the position

Log into KTH's recruitment system to apply for this position. You are responsible for ensuring that your application is complete according to the instructions in the ad.

The application must include:

• CV including relevant professional experience and knowledge.
• Personal letter (containing a description of earlier experiences within the scientific field and a motivation for your interest in this assignment).
• Contact details to three references. 

Your complete application must be received at KTH no later than the last day of application, midnight CET/CEST (Central European Time/Central European Summer Time).

About the employment

The position offered is for, at the most, two years.

A position as a postdoctoral fellow is a time-limited qualified appointment focusing mainly on research, intended as a first career step after a dissertation.

Others

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Disclaimer: In case of discrepancy between the Swedish original and the English translation of the job announcement, the Swedish version takes precedence.