Postdoctoral Scholar

The Vollum Institute is a privately endowed research institute at Oregon Health & Science University dedicated to basic research that will lead to new treatments for neurological and psychiatric diseases. Vollum scientists have broad-ranging interests that coalesce around molecular neurobiology and cellular physiology. Their work has transformed the field of neuroscience and, in particular, have provided important advances in the study of synaptic transmission, neuronal development, neurotransmitter transporters, ion channels and the neurobiology of disease.

This position is full-time and the responsibilities are to conduct research exploring the structural and biophysical mechanisms of synaptic transmission by elucidating the structures of native neurotransmitter receptors or transporters, and their synapses, or elements of the auditory transduction complex, by single particle cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) and cryo-electron tomography (cryo-ET) studies, in combination with complementary biochemical experiments.

• Planning, executing, and analyzing experiments for independent research project(s) using biochemical methods and single particle and tomographic cryo-EM methods to elucidate the structure(s) of the target molecule(s) and their organization.
• Manuscript preparation for individual projects and assisting other lab members with manuscripts as needed.
• Assisting the PI and other lab members with grant application (data acquisition, writing assistance, editing) as needed.
• Traveling to national and international meetings to present on findings.
• Helping to mentor and train junior members of the laboratory.
• Other duties as assigned.

• PhD in biochemistry and biophysics.
• Structural studies of biological molecules using cryo-EM, x-ray crystallography or NMR, in addition to complimentary biochemical studies.
• Knowledge of cryo-EM, x-ray crystallography, Linux or UNIX computer language, theories and practice, as well as skills related to recombinant DNA technology, protein expression and purification, and basic biochemical analysis, including SDS PAGE and protein chromatography.

• In depth experience in single particle cryo-EM and experience with protein expression, purification and biochemical studies, as well as experience in writing manuscripts and preparing and giving presentations.

• Substantial experience in the publication of own work, as first author, in peer-reviewed publications.

• Knowledge and skills in the areas of electron microscopy, preparation of EM grids, use and knowledge of computer programs for single particle cryo-EM and knowledge of membrane protein expression and purification from mammalian, insect or bacterial cells, along with accompanying biochemical analysis.

• Fluent English language skills for writing and speaking, as well as ability to draft manuscripts and prepare oral presentations.

Standard laboratory work, Monday - Friday, 9:00am - 5:00pm, flexible with some evenings/weekends as experiments demand.