Research Assistant in NMR-based structural biology

The University of Gothenburg tackles society’s challenges with diverse knowledge. 56 000 students and 6 600 employees make the university a large and inspiring place to work and study. Strong research and attractive study programmes attract researchers and students from around the world. With new knowledge and new perspectives, the University contributes to a better future.

The Department of Chemistry and Molecular Biology conducts high-quality research and education in chemical sciences and molecular life sciences. Our research and education focuses on a deep understanding of chemical and biological processes in cells and in the environment.

We address important societal issues such as antibiotic resistance, cancer, brain diseases, environmental problems and climate change. In this way, we contribute to achieving the UN's global goals for sustainable development in the areas of good health and well-being, sustainable energy for all, sustainable cities and communities, and combating climate change.

The department is an international environment with interdisciplinary collaborations in both research and education, and contributes strongly to the University of Gothenburg's top ranking in life science.

The department is responsible for postgraduate education in the subject area Natural Sciences with a focus on chemistry, biophysics, biology and educational science. In addition, the department hosts educational programs in molecular biology, genomics and systems biology, chemistry, organic chemistry and pharmaceutical chemistry, as well as prescription education. The department collaborates with various societal actors such as schools, business and authorities. The Department of Chemistry and Molecular Biology has around 200 employees. We are located in central premises on Campus Medicinareberget in Gothenburg.

The group of Björn Burmann uses state of the art NMR-spectroscopy to study large molecular complexes underlying basic cellular functions at the atomic level in combination with other structural biology methods and biophysical characterization. Björn Burmann’s group investigates macromolecular protein machines underlying essential cellular functions, e.g. protein quality control and their effect on misfolding- and aggregation-prone proteins underlying several different diseases, through biophysical and structural biology approaches e.g. high-resolution Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR). Results of previous studies into molecular chaperones and functional mechanism of proteases at the atomic level have been published in top journals (Burmann et al. NSMB 2013, Thoma et al, NSMB 2015, Burmann et al., Nature 2020, Mas et al. Sci. Adv.  2020, Sulskis et al., Sci. Adv. 2021). More details on our research can be found at: (www.wcmtm.gu.se/research-groups/burmann).

Duties 

The research project aims at advancing the molecular understanding of the function and regulation of mitochondrial homo-oligomeric serine proteases by advanced NMR-spectroscopy as well as its role in maintaining mitochondrial transcription. Malfunction of these fundamental proteases leads to the accumulation of misfolded proteins and thus provide the foundation a wide range of diseases. Specifically, you will study (1) the molecular mechanisms by which the mitochondrial HtrA2 and Lon proteases are regulated and activated (2) how they recognizes and subsequently cleaves misfolded protein substrates such as human TFAM, and (3) how they are regulated by and interacting with auxiliary factors. To achieve this goal, you will use a plethora of techniques ranging from basic biochemistry to advanced structural biology methods and biophysical characterization. Methods in microbiology, molecular biology, bioinformatics and biochemistry will also be used. We are looking for a colleague, that is highly motivated, scientifically independent, and creative, and capable of contributing to a team environment.

Qualifications 

An advanced degree in a relevant field such as Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biophysics, Structural Biology, or related fields is expected. Previous work on related protein systems will be considered favorable.

The successful candidate should have a strong background in biochemistry, biophysics, and NMR spectroscopy. Previous work related to serine proteases, e.g. expression and purification and/or functional characterization for structural studies, will be considered an advantage. Possessing detailed experience in the following techniques is considered mandatory:

• Knowledge in recombinant protein expression and purification of relevant proteins, such as human mitochondrial TFAM, HtrA2 or Lon.
• Expert knowledge in solution NMR methods (e.g. assignment, protein dynamics, data analysis)
• Expert knowledge in sample preparation (isotope labelling, methyl-labelling)
• Detailed knowledge in additional biophysical and structural biology techniques (ITC, BLI, SEC-MALLS, EM, X-Ray)
• Expert knowledge in automated data procession and analysis in particular NMR dynamics

Furthermore, a genuine interest in structure and dynamics or protein function is required. Co-Authorship in high impact journals such as Nature, Nature Communications or Nucleic Acids Research is considered favorable. 

Employment 

Fixed term during one year full time (100%) at the Department of Chemistry and Molecular Biology.

Contact information for the post 

If you have any questions about the position, please contact Björn Burmann, Associate Professor, +46(0)31 786 3923 bjorn.marcus.burmann@gu.se

Unions 

Union representatives at the University of Gothenburg can be found here: https://www.gu.se/om-universitetet/jobba-hos-oss/hjalp-for-sokande 

Application 

To apply for a position at the University of Gothenburg, you have to create an account in our recruitment system. Submit your application via the University of Gothenburg’s recruitment portal by clicking the “Apply” button. It is your responsibility to ensure that the application is complete as per the vacancy notice, and that the University receives it by the final application deadline. 

The application must include:

• Cover letter with an explanation of why you apply for the position
• CV including scientific publications
• Copy of exam certificate
• Two referees (name, telephone no, relation)

Applications must be received by: 2024-05-02

 

The University works actively to achieve a working environment with equal conditions, and values the qualities that diversity brings to its operations.

Salaries are set individually at the University.

In accordance with the National Archives of Sweden’s regulations, the University must archive application documents for two years after the appointment is filled. If you request that your documents are returned, they will be returned to you once the two years have passed. Otherwise, they will be destroyed.

In connection to this recruitment, we have already decided which recruitment channels we should use. We therefore decline further contact with vendors, recruitment and staffing companies.