Job description

A 3-year position as researcher is available in the Group of Structural Biology and Drug Development (Luecke group) at the Centre for Molecular Medicine Norway (NCMM) in Oslo.

The Group for Structural Biology and Drug Development investigates medically relevant proteins and protein complexes using biophysical, biochemical and structural approaches. The projects aim at understanding structure-function relationships with an emphasis on drug discovery. We employ a variety of biochemical and biophysical techniques (x-ray crystallography, single particle and tomographic cryo electron microscopy, DSF, ITC, SPR, HDX-MS, SAXS, CD spectroscopy, molecular dynamics simulations etc.). Specific, externally funded projects include inhibitor discovery targeting the Helicobacter pylori pH acclimation system (a pH-gated urea channel and a cytoplasmic urease), and discovery of compounds that reactivate p53 cancer mutants in vitro and in vivo.

The position is available from medio November 2020. We seek highly a motivated individual with an excellent track record and extensive experience in protein purification and biophysical and biochemical characterization of proteins and protein complexes, including membrane proteins. Demonstrated experience of structural biology techniques (x-ray crystallography and single particle cryo electron microscopy as well as tomography) is required.

Qualification requirements

The ideal candidate:

• Must have a Ph.D. degree in biochemistry or biophysics
• Must have had at least two previous postdoctoral previous positions in structural biology related areas (cryo-EM and x-ray crystallography)
• Must have extensive hands-on experience with the expression, extraction and purification of proteins and assembly of protein complexes, including mammalian membrane proteins
• Must have experience in protein biophysical characterization (e.g. circular dichroism, ITC, DSF, etc)
• Must have mammalian cell culture experience
• Must have experience in molecular modelling and docking
• Must have the ability to independently perform & troubleshoot experiments, analyze, and interpret results
• Must have experience in cryo-EM sample preparation & optimization, data collection on 300 kV cryoTEMs and full data processing and structure solution to high resolution
• Must have experience in protein engineering
• Must have excellent English interpersonal, communication and writing skills
• Must have documented ability to write scientific manuscripts (one or more first author papers each from their Ph.D. and postdoctoral studies)
• Must have demonstrated experience in obtaining competitive, international research funding
• Must have the ability to operate as a team player in a multi-disciplinary environment

We offer

• salary NOK 563 700 – 679 000 per annum depending on qualifications in position as Researcher (position code 1109)
• a professionally stimulating working environment
• attractive welfare benefits and a generous pension agreement, in addition to Oslo’s family-friendly environment with its rich opportunities for culture and outdoor activities

How to apply

Application via website required and must include:

• Cover Letter stating experience, motivation and research interests
• A detailed C.V.
• A complete list of scientific publications with brief statement of candidate contribution for each
• List of references (name, institution, e-mail, telephone number and relation to candidate)

The application with attachments must be delivered in our electronic recruiting system. Foreign applicants are advised to attach an explanation of their University's grading system. Please note that all documents should be in English.

In assessing the applications, special emphasis will be placed on the documented, academic qualifications, the project description (whenever this is required in the call for applicants), and the quality of the project as well as the candidates motivation and personal suitability. Interviews with the best qualified candidates will be arranged.

It is expected that the successful candidate will be able to complete the project in the course of the period of employment.

Formal regulations

According to the Norwegian Freedom of Information Act (Offentleglova) information about the applicant may be included in the public applicant list, also in cases where the applicant has requested non-disclosure.

The University of Oslo has an agreement for all employees, aiming to secure rights to research results etc.

The University of Oslo aims to achieve a balanced gender composition in the workforce and to recruit people with ethnic minority backgrounds.

Contact information

Inquiries:

About the position and projects: Prof. Hartmut “Hudel” Luecke.

About administrative aspects of the application: Nina Modahl.

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