2 funded postdoc positions: ERC project - de novo protein design, high-throughput biophysics

Overview

Two postdoc positions are available at the Laboratory of Computational Protein Design in Brussels (https://vorobievalab.sites.vib.be/en) and are funded by an ERC grant. The focus of the group is the de novo design of membrane proteins and nanopores for applications such as single-molecule sensing. In that context, this ERC project aims to (i) develop a new experimental platform for high-throughput characterization of the biophysical properties of natural and synthetic protein nanopores and (ii) leverage the generated data for the development of better computational design methods based on the Rosetta software and the latest generative deep learning software for protein design.

We are therefore looking for two profiles with interest in the design of membrane proteins:

Profile 1

Recent Ph.D. in experimental protein engineering/directed evolution.

Demonstrated experience in:

• Developing and using high-throughput assays.
• Library construction (mutagenesis, oligo pools).
• Recombinant expression, purification and characterization of proteins.
• Deep sequencing and analysis.

Experience with membrane proteins and/or cell-free expression will be regarded as a plus.

Profile 2

Recent Ph.D. in computational protein design or modelling.

Demonstrated experience in:

• Modelling/design of protein with Rosetta, AlphaFold and/or deep learning.
• Deep sequencing data analysis and interpretation.
• Good understanding of (membrane) protein structure.

The two candidates will collaborate and should therefore have excellent verbal and written English communication to facilitate inter-disciplinary work.

We offer

• State-of-the-art structural biology, computing, and protein engineering facilities
• Excellent training in academic, technical, and career skills.
• A stimulating and supportive international research environment.
• VIB provides competitive salary and benefits, as well as participation in national social security, healthcare, and retirement plans.
• Starting date: April 2024

How to apply?

Interested candidates should submit their candidacy through the VIB online application tool.

A complete application file (English) should contain the following documents:

• your cover/motivation letter stating career goals, past experience, and how these relate to the current position
• your CV
• contact information of 2 references

For further information and questions, please send an email to Anastassia Vorobieva (anastassia.vorobieva@vib.be).