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VPD Group accepting post-doc applications

A postdoctoral research associate position is immediately available at Northwestern University in the area of “Cryo Electron Microscopy” of proteins, related biomolecular structures, complexes and their conformational dynamics under external stimuli.

The candidate will work in the group of Professor Vinayak Dravid in the department of materials science & engineering, towards the 3D and 4D characterization of structures and dynamics of fusion proteins, megamolecules and related complexes, primarily by cryo and conventional scanning transmission and transmission electron microscopy (S/TEM). Select experiments will be performed with fluidic-cell scanned probe microscopy (FC-SPM) to probe dynamic conformation changes and local nanomechanical perturbations. The candidate will work closely with the NUANCE Center (NSF Center for Facility Excellence in the greater Midwest), which houses a comprehensive sample preparation and atomic-nanoscale characterization capabilities for soft, hard and hybrid structures.

Dravid’s research is part of an extensive cross-disciplinary and collaborative project across Chemistry, Biomedical Engineering, and Cell & Molecular Biology experts at Northwestern and University of Chicago. As a result, the candidate will have ample opportunity to learn diverse aspects of synthetic biology, simulation and imaging of unconventional molecules.

The preferred candidate will have a doctoral degree in science or engineering fields. The preferred candidate will also have a proven track-record and established hands-on experience in the areas of advanced electron microscopy of biomolecules and soft matter. Experience should include extensive expertise and hands-on experience in cryo-EM of biomolecules, in image processing, and in programming/software for the reconstruction of protein based structures.

The position is available immediately for two years with the possibility for extension. Compensation will be commensurate with experience and expertise, with opportunities for research faculty appointment towards training and preparation for tenure-track faculty position.

Complete applications will include: Introduction letter, Curriculum Vitae, a brief Research Statement, Contact information for 3 references (name, postal & email address, phone number).

Materials should be submitted as a single PDF to amy.morgan@northwestern.edu and v- dravid@northwestern.edu.

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