Postdoctoral position in Atom Probe Tomography Proteomics

Information about the research/the project
We invite applications for a postdoctoral position in the field of high resolution microscopy and specifically characterization of protein structures. The work includes specimen prepararion using FIB-SEM and exstensive material characterization using electron microscopy (SEM and TEM) and atom probe tomography (APT).

Proteins are essential molecules of life. Research on the molecular structure of proteins is challenging and motivated by increased biological knowledge in general and by the development of pharmaceutical drugs in particular. Transmembrane proteins, for example are targets for more than half of all modern medicines.

The APT technique is based on spatially resolved mass spectroscopy having equal sensitivity for all elements across the periodic table. Such analysis is achievable when the specimen is in the shape of an ultra-sharp needle, whereby ionized atoms are peeled off layer-by-layer in an electrical field resulting in a 3D reconstruction. The core and novelty of the project is to use an amorphous oxide as water replacement for specimen preparation, whereby APT specimens containing proteins of choice in their natural state will be prepared. Such a protein immobilization strategy has been shown to retain both protein structure and function; however, this is the first time that it is used together with APT. The specific aim will be towards direct 3D visualization of transmembrane proteins situated within membranes, which today is the most challenging part of protein structure determinations; only 1% of such proteins have been structurally determined. The developed method will be an important complement to the traditionally used methods for protein structuring, X-ray crystallography and NMR spectroscopy.

The postdoc position is for 1 year and will be positioned at the research group led by Professor Martin Andersson at the Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering.

Major responsibilities
The postdoctoral position includes independent research tasks combined with co-supervision of graduate students. No or limited amount of teaching is included in the position.

Position summary
The applicant is expected to prepare APT specimens contaning proteins and to charaterize them using electron microscopy and APT.

Qualifications
The applicant should have a PhD in material science, chemistry, biology, physics or other related areas. Experience of APT, FIB-SEM and TEM is required. The degree should generally not be older than three years. You are expected to be somewhat accustomed to teaching, and to demonstrate good potential within research and education.

Chalmers continuously strives to be an attractive employer. Equality and diversity are substantial foundations in all activities at Chalmers.

Application deadline: 26 June, 2016

For questions, please contact:
Professor Martin Andersson, Applied Chemistry, martin.andersson@chalmers.se, + 46 31 772 2966

 *** Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. *** 
   



Chalmers University of Technology conducts research and education in engineering sciences, architecture, technology-related mathematical sciences, natural and nautical sciences, working in close collaboration with industry and society. The strategy for scientific excellence focuses on our eight Areas of Advance; Built Environment, Energy, Information & Communication Technology, Life Science, Materials Science, Nanoscience & Nanotechnology, Production and Transport. The aim is to make an active contribution to a sustainable future using the basic sciences as a foundation and innovation and entrepreneurship as the central driving forces. Chalmers has around 11,000 students and 3,000 employees. New knowledge and improved technology have characterised Chalmers since its foundation in 1829, completely in accordance with the will of William Chalmers and his motto: Avancez!