Job IRC2749: Postdoc position at LANL in neutron protein crystallography

From: Suzanne Zoe Fisher
Date: 7 November 2011 20:28

Detailed Description
		Immediate postdoctoral positions are available at the neutron Protein Crystallography Station of the Los Alamos National Laboratory.  We are looking for crystallographers and/or biochemists to conduct research in the protein structure-function field, with a focus on using joint neutron and X_ray crystallography approaches.  Projects include, but are not limited to, studies in mechanistic enzymology, rational protein engineering, and computational biology (QM, QM/MM, MD).  We are particularly interested in individuals with a strong background in protein expression, purification and crystallization of membrane proteins as part of a collaborative effort aimed at determining neutron structures of these targets.  An incumbent should be proficient in all aspects of macromolecular crystallography, including protein production, crystallization, data collection and processing, structure refinement and  analysis.  The postdoctoral associates will be trained in neutron protein crystallography techniques and joint X-ray/neutron refinement approaches.  The postdoctoral researchers will be expected to participate in the PCS user program part-time as well as the collaborative efforts of the team.  A Ph.D. in biochemistry a related discipline is required. Knowledge of mechanistic biochemistry and enzymology is desired. Eligible persons should be within 5 years of receiving their Ph.D. degree. Responsibilities: 1.      Work on projects to support the PCS user program and DOE-OBER mission areas. 2.      Develop and work on an independent research project in the field of joint X-ray and neutron crystallography. 3.      Work as part of a collaborative team of interdisciplinary scientists. 4.      Publish and present results at both internal and external scientific meetings. 5.      Foster and establish project collaborations within and outside LANL. 6.      Incorporate and develop new scientific advances into research and processes.
Job Requirements
		Minimum Job Requirements:     1.     Expertise in all aspects of single crystal macromolecular diffraction studies, including a proven track record of developing and optimizing crystallization for X-ray structure determination. 2.     Experience with protein production, characterization and biochemical methods (protein expression, purification, quantification, enzymatic assays). 3.     Expertise in some of solution biophysical methods such as differential scanning calorimetry, mass spectrometry, enzyme kinetics assays, UV-Vis and fluorescence spectroscopy. 4.     Familiarity with protein modeling. 5.    Have a proven track record of problem solving, good organization, strong communication, multi-tasking and teamwork skills and the ability to collaborate within multidisciplinary teams. 6.     Committed to high quality work with a strong user focus. 7.     Have a proven track record of strong written, oral communication, and presentation skills. Education:  Ph.D. in chemistry, biochemistry or macromolecular crystallography in the last 5 years.
Additional Details
		Notes to Applicants:  Interested scientists should contact Dr. A. Kovalevsky, Bioscience Division, Los Alamos National Laboratory, e-mail: ayk@lanl.gov, or Dr. S.Z. Fisher, Bioscience Division, Los Alamos National Laboratory, e-mail: zfisher@lanl.gov.  Send your CV and the list of publications. Pre-Employment Drug Test: The Laboratory requires successful applicants to complete a pre-employment drug test and maintains a substance abuse policy that includes random drug testing. Candidates may be considered for a Director's Fellowship and outstanding candidates may be considered for the prestigious Marie Curie, Richard P. Feynman, J. Robert Oppenheimer,  or Frederick Reines Fellowships.   For general information refer to the Postdoctoral Program page. Equal Opportunity: Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal opportunity employer and supports a diverse and inclusive workforce.  We welcome and encourage applications from the broadest possible range of qualified candidates.  The Laboratory is also committed to making our workplace accessible to individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations, upon request, for individuals to participate in the application and hiring process.  To request such an accommodation, please send an email to applyhelp@lanl.gov or call 1-505-665-5627.