Post-Doctoral Associate in Structural Biophysics – Department of Pharmacology

Institute/Company Information

The University of Minnesota, founded in the belief that all people are enriched by understanding, is dedicated to the advancement of learning and the search for truth; to the sharing of this knowledge through education for a diverse community; and to the application of this knowledge to benefit the people of the state, the nation, and the world.

Position Details
Job Title
Post-Doctoral Associate in Structural Biophysics – Department of Pharmacology
Employer
University of Minnesota Twin Cities
Location
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Date Posted
09/01/2024
Date End
Open until filled
Employer URL
https://twin-cities.umn.edu
Job Description
Postdoctoral position available for highly motivated candidate in the Levinson Laboratory in the Department of Pharmacology at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities campus. The Levinson Lab studies allostery and drug recognition in protein kinases using advanced biophysical spectroscopy coupled with structural and biochemical methods. A core focus of the lab is understanding the allosteric basis for how drug binding to the active site modulates kinase protein-protein interactions in cancer. Our projects are performed in close collaboration with the lab of David D. Thomas in the Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biophysics, whose instrumentation for time-resolved fluorescence and magnetic resonance forms a core component of our experimental toolkit. Successful applicants will have a PhD degree in Chemistry with experience in advanced biophysical spectroscopy including electron paramagnetic resonance and will work in a highly collaborative environment that spans the disciplines of structural biology and biophysics. Primary duties include: 75% experimental work to lead a project(s) in the lab. Real-time tracking of ligand-driven allosteric structural transitions in kinases using time-resolved FRET and EPR Dissection of oncogenic kinase scaffolding interactions using X-ray crystallography, cryo-EM, NMR, EPR and FRET Allosteric drug discovery using a novel high-throughput screening platform based on nanosecond time-resolved FRET 15% publication and presentation of data Maintaining accurate records Communicating findings through publications in peer-reviewed journals Preparing and giving presentations at local and national meetings 10% training of lab personnel Contributing to the training of junior personnel (undergraduate and graduate students, technicians) in the lab Fostering a safe, collegial, and inclusive workplace environment Required Qualifications ⢠PhD in Chemistry ⢠Training in biophysical spectroscopy including electron paramagnetic resonance ⢠Strong communication and interpersonal skills ⢠Aptitude for working in a collaborative team Preferred Qualifications ⢠Experience with recombinant protein expression, particularly in insect cells and/or mammalian cells