Postdoctoral Position in Structural Biology: The Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology invites applications for a fully funded Postdoctoral Position in the field of Structural Biology of Dynamic Membrane Pores. This position is within the project group of Dr. Tobias Raisch in the Department of Structural Biochemistry, under the direction of Prof. Stefan Raunser, at the Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology in Dortmund, Germany. The successful candidate will join an international team and work in a world-renowned institute equipped with cutting-edge cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) and cryo-electron tomography (cryo-ET) infrastructure.
Designation: Postdoctoral Research Associate
Research Area: Structural Biology, Membrane Pores, Cell Death Mechanisms
Location: Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology, Dortmund, Germany
Eligibility/Qualification:
- An excellent Ph.D. in structural biology, biochemistry, biophysics, or a related field.
- Experience in membrane protein biochemistry, single-particle cryo-EM, or cryo-ET is advantageous.
- Strong curiosity and a willingness to learn new methods and adapt to technological advancements.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research team.
Job Description:
Postdoctoral Position (m/f/d) in Structural Biology of Dynamic Membrane Pores
The primary objective of this postdoctoral position is to investigate the structural architecture and dynamic assembly of eukaryotic pore-forming membrane attack complexes that induce cell death. Key responsibilities include:
- Determining high-resolution structures of reconstituted pores in vitro using purified components.
- Visualizing the arrangement of pores in situ within their native membrane.
- Employing a range of methods such as membrane complex reconstitution, single-particle cryo-EM, cryogenic focused ion beam (cryo-FIB) milling, and electron cryo-tomography (cryo-ET).
- Collaborating with a multidisciplinary research team spanning MPI Dortmund and the University of Geneva, supported by a SINERGIA grant from the Swiss National Fund (SNF).
Dr. Tobias Raisch’s group specializes in the biochemical reconstitution and characterization of medically relevant membrane proteins and complexes. The Department of Structural Biochemistry is at the forefront of cryo-EM and cryo-ET, with expertise in both method development and applying electron microscopy techniques to challenging biological systems.
Why join us? Working at the Max Planck Institute offers a unique research environment and numerous benefits, including:
- Access to state-of-the-art research facilities.
- Opportunities to collaborate on cutting-edge research projects.
- An international and stimulating working atmosphere.
- Comprehensive training programs, including lectures, scientific workshops, skill courses, and career development opportunities.
- A mentoring program to support and advance young scientists.
Salary: Salary will be determined based on personal conditions and qualifications in accordance with the TVöD directive. Social benefits are in line with those of the public service.
How to Apply: Interested applicants should submit the following documents to Dr. Tobias Raisch at tobias.raisch@mpi-dortmund.mpg.de by September 30th, 2023:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Motivation letter detailing research experiences and interests.
- Two reference letters.
Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of groundbreaking research in structural biology at the Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology. Apply now!
