A post-doctoral position is available in the group of Sebastian Hiller at the Biozentrum of the University Basel, starting August 1, 2010. We study the structure and function of integral membrane proteins and their complexes with NMR. Our projects address fundamental biological processes of high impact. A representative example for our research is the human voltage-dependent anion channel (VDAC) (1,2).
The postdoctoral research project concerns the *de novo* structure determination of a membrane protein complex involved in substrate transport across membranes. We will establish the sample preparation using native-like membrane mimics and determine the structure to atomic resolution using solution and solid-state NMR. Subsequently, the functioning of the protein complex and its interactions with ligands are characterized. An integral part of our projects is the use and development of state-of-the-art biochemical and NMR techniques (3). Interested candidates need a Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Biophysics, Structural or Molecular Biology or related fields. Expertise in at least one of the following areas is mandatory: NMR, protein biochemistry, membrane proteins, molecular biology. The successful candidate is highly motivated, creative and capable of contributing productively in a team environment. Communication skills in oral and written English are essential. The position and the research projects are long-term funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF). We offer an exciting and enthusiastic work environment with scientific collaborations in the institute and worldwide. The Biozentrum Basel is one of the leading biomedical research institutions in Switzerland and has recently been placed among the Top 10 international “Best Places to Work for Postdocs” by *The Scientist*magazine. Facilities for structural biology include 600 MHz and 800 MHz Bruker spectrometers equipped with cryogenic and magic angle spinning probes. Salary and benefits are attractive, following the guidelines of the Swiss National Science Foundation. The start date is August 1, 2010 or on mutual agreement. Applications and informal queries about the lab and research projects should be directed by email to Sebastian Hiller. Applications should include a cover letter summarizing current and future research interests, a CV, list of publications and contact information for at least two references. Prof. Sebastian Hiller Biozentrum, University of Basel Klingelbergstrasse 50/70 4056 Basel, Switzerland http://www.biozentrum.unibas.ch/hiller/ Email: [email protected] Phone: +41 44 633 43 45 Fax: +41 44 632 16 21 *References* 1. *Hiller S*, Garces RG, Malia TJ, Orekhov VY, Colombini M and Wagner G. Solution structure of the integral human membrane protein VDAC-1 in detergent micelles. *Science* *321*, 1206–1210 (2008). 2. Raschle T, *Hiller S*, Yu TY, Rice AJ, Walz T and Wagner G. Structural and functional characterization of the integral membrane protein VDAC-1 in lipid bilayer nanodiscs. *J. Am. Chem. Soc.* *131*, 17777–17779 (2009). 3. *Hiller S*, Ibraghimov I, Wagner G and Orekhov VY. Coupled decomposition of four-dimensional NOESY spectra. *J. Am. Chem. Soc.* *131 *, 12970–12978 (2009). -- -------------------------------------------------------------------- Sebastian Hiller Laboratorium für Physikalische Chemie ETH Zürich HCI D 213 Wolfgang-Pauli-Str. 10 8093 Zurich Switzerland >From August 1, 2010: Biozentrum University of Basel Klingelbergstrasse 50/70 4056 Basel Switzerland [email protected] [email protected] phone: +41 44 633 43 45 fax: +41 44 632 16 21
