Posted on behalf of Dr. Mark Howarth:
Postdoctoral Fellowship available. Super-strong protein-ligand interactions: Design, Structural investigation and Application in Bionanotechnology The general theme of our research is to develop new biological and chemical approaches for cellular imaging and disease diagnosis. The interaction of streptavidin with biotin is one of the strongest non-covalent interactions in nature. Streptavidin is a ubiquitous tool in molecular biology, as well as showing success in cancer clinical trials. We have previously made two advances in streptavidin, generating a monovalent version and a mutant with 10-fold more stable biotin binding. These variants have enabled new possibilities, such as for single-molecule imaging of receptor traffic, ultra-sensitive detection, and testing power-generation by DNA pumps. We are seeking to appoint a postdoc to design variants of streptavidin with new assembly and ligand-binding properties, to apply these in bionanotechnology, and to use biophysical approaches (including crystallography) to gain insight into the fundamental limits of the strength of protein:ligand binding. Streptavidin typically crystallizes quickly, to produce crystals diffracting to high resolution. Experience in crystallography is helpful but training can be provided. A strong background in molecular biology and recombinant protein expression is required. The appointment will be for 2 years, with possible extension for 1 further year. For initial application please e-mail a CV, including contact details for 3 referees, to [email protected]
