Research Post Doc - Sgourakis Lab

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A Brief Overview
Under the direction/guidance of a mentor (principal investigator), assumes responsibility for a specific, on-going research project. The experience will serve to extend, refine and enhance skills necessary for professional and career development, and will enable the individual to broaden his/her scientific background by acquiring new research capabilities. It is expected that this individual will conduct independent scholarly research, and will contribute directly to the overall research goals of the project and the research group.

This role will be expected to participate in project planning, recording and interpretation/evaluation of data, and communication of results. This position will also be expected to acquire technical, lab management, and manuscript/grant writing skills; and participate in seminars, lectures, poster sessions and presentations at national meetings. This role also may be required to supervise junior lab members, develop new methods and protocols for research, and assist with the development of other research projects in the lab.

Position Overview

We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher to investigate molecular mechanisms of small molecule recognition by intracellular receptors using integrative structural biology approaches. This NIH-funded position (R35 MIRA) focuses on elucidating how MHC-I-related protein 1 (MR1) binds, traffics, and displays endogenous metabolites that serve as biomarkers of different intracellular states.

Research Focus

The project combines methyl-based NMR spectroscopy with computational modeling and in vitro assays to characterize MR1/metabolite complexes and their interactions with molecular chaperones such as TAPBPR. Research will investigate how metabolite binding creates unique conformational states that can be leveraged to promote ligand exchange. This work has significant translational potential, as human viruses including CMV, HSV, and SARS-CoV-2 interfere with MR1 processing, making it a promising target for universal therapies.

Laboratory Resources

Our lab provides access to high-performance computing, 600 and 800 MHz Avance Neo spectrometers at the University of Pennsylvania NMR facility, and complementary equipment for biophysical, functional, and structural studies. This position offers exceptional opportunities to develop cutting-edge skills in integrative structural biology within a highly translational research environment.

Application Instructions: Submit the following materials -

• Curriculum vitae
• Brief statement of research interests
• Contact information for three references

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and apply NMR spectroscopy and complementary biophysical techniques
• Characterize conformational plasticity in protein/ligand recognition Preferred
• Investigate molecular chaperone-mediated ligand exchange mechanisms Preferred
• Leverage protein engineering to optimize systems for NMR studies Preferred
• Collaborate on integrative structural biology projects Preferred

What you will do

• Conduct independent scholarly research and develop new methods and protocols
• Participate in project planning, recording and evaluation of data
• Acquire technical, lab management and grant writing skills
• Participate in seminars, lectures, poster sessions and presentation at national meetings
• Supervise junior lab members
• Assist with other research projects

Education Qualifications

• Doctorate - Required
• Ph.D. in structural biology, biophysics, biochemistry, or related field - Preferred

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong background in NMR spectroscopy and protein biochemistry
• Expertise in NMR methods for investigating protein dynamics
• Experience with selective isotope labeling strategies
• Proficiency in structural modeling and computational approaches
• Excellent communication skills and strong publication record
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a dynamic environment

Skills and Abilities

• Ability to wear a respirator device

  
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SALARY RANGE:

Salary ranges are shown for full-time jobs. If you're working part-time, your pay will be adjusted accordingly.

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