The position is available in the laboratory of Aitor Hierro to work in the area of *structural biology* and *membrane trafficking*.
We study the interactions, in molecular mechanistic detail, that underlie the selectivity of cargo transport vesicles for recognizing the correct target membrane. We do this using a combination of structural, biochemical and biophysical approaches. The focus of the project is on a series of soluble and membrane associated proteins (and their complexes), which coordinate tethering and fusion of transport vesicles from endosomes to the Golgi apparatus (for references, see PMDIs: 20615984; 21183348 and 17891154). The position requires PhD. degree with a strong background in molecular biology for heterologous recombinant protein expression in different hosts such Escherichia coli, insect cell-baculovirus and mammalian cells. Previous experience in X-ray crystallography and the use of biophysical or biochemical techniques for the characterization of protein complexes would be an advantage. Local resources at the institute include shared state-of-the-art facilities for high throughput crystallization, and in-house X-ray data collection. We also have regular synchrotron beamtime. Other biophysical instrumentation such DLS, ITC, DSC, CD, SEC-MALLS and fluorescence spectrometers are also available. For testing our structural and *in vitro* analyses we have complementary collaborations with leading laboratories in the cell biology field. The institute is well-situated with numerous groups working in X-ray crystallography, NMR and EM that form a critical mass in the area of structural biology. This position offers an excellent opportunity for an experienced protein biochemist/biophysicist or cell biologist to complement his or her expertise in X-ray crystallography working at the juncture between structural biology and cell biology. The position is available beginning December 2011 and funded for 3+2 years. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. * Interested candidates* please email a cover letter, your CV, and names (including email address) of at least two referees to *[email protected]* with *ref. 3131*in the subject.
