Dear all: A postdoctoral position is available in the Mitra Lab at the School of Biological Sciences at University of Auckland to investigate 3-dimensional structure/function of two membrane proteins involved in cation and solute transport using primarily X-ray crystallography, but also electron crystallography when appropriate. Purified protein, either produced by recombinant expression or from natural sources are now available in amounts sufficient for extensive crystal trials, which are ongoing. The ideal candidate should have a PhD in biochemistry, biophysics or structural biology preferably with an experience in membrane proteins. Previous experience in X-ray crystallography and the use of biophysical techniques for membrane proteins would be an advantage, so also knowledge of basic molecular biology techniques and protein expression both from bacteria and yeast. The position is initially for 2 years and 4 months with a good possibility for extension. The salary will be commensurate with experience. Our group is part of the Structural Biology Section in the School comprising of 5 other groups. Modern in-house facilities for carrying out all aspects of protein crystallography are available (directed by Prof. Ted baker) as part of the core facility. The X-ray suite comprises of a Rigaku MicroMax(TM) - 007HR rotation anode equipped with 2x Mar345dtb detectors & 2x Oxford Cryosystems Cobra units. The 3D crystallization suite comprises of a Cartesian HONEYBEE Benchtop Crystallisation System with Perkin Elmer MultiPROBE II HT. We also have direct access to the Australian Synchotron facility. We have a modern cryo-EM unit comprising of a CM12, a Tecnai12 equipped with a 2K2K GATAN CCD camera and a TecnaiF20 with energy filter to arrive mid 2011 and all ancillary equipments for cryo work. A 600MHZ NMR machine is also available, which is housed in the Chemistry Dept. Details of other facilities available within the school may be found from http://www.sbs.auckland.ac.nz/uoa/. Auckland has been voted the 5th most liveable city in the world. The city is dotted with numerous parks and beaches and has a temperate climate. New Zealand is a haven for nature lovers. Informal enquires can be made to Alok K Mitra ([email protected]). The position will be open until filled.
