Position Summary
The Pallesen Lab (https://cryoem.sitehost.iu.edu/) in the department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry at Indiana University Bloomington invites applications for a postdoctoral position. We are currently looking for candidates with emphasis on immunobiology and structural biology. Prior experience with cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) is preferred. This is a two-year position with an immediate start date and possibility for extension.
The optimal candidate will perform high-resolution cryo-EM of coronavirus proteins in complex with animal and human antibodies. This project is fully extramurally funded and is a fast-paced consortium effort in collaboration with the Wistar Institute, Inovio, AstraZeneca and University of Pennsylvania. Publication opportunities in peer-reviewed scientific journals will be plenty. More info on our consortium can be found here: https://wistar.org/news/press-releases/darpa-and-jpeo-cbrnd-award-376m-wistar-institute-and-collaborators-inovio-0 and https://news.iu.edu/stories/2020/12/iub/releases/21-grant-to-develop-innovative-covid-19-treatment.html .
The Pallesen Lab studies molecular mechanisms of recognition and signal transfer in immunobiological interactions. We use a wealth of biochemical and biophysical techniques and our analyses revolve around state-of-the-art cryo-EM experimentation. We are pushing the envelope of cryo-EM structural characterization by implementing new and exciting methodologies into our workflows. Our lab is a RosettaCommons member and we have full access to our TFS Talos Arctica electron microscope equipped with phase plates and both TFS Falcon 3 and Gatan K3 direct electron detectors. We also have access to several extramural TFS Titan Krios instruments. Our structural studies rely on well-established collaborations as well as immunobiological systems and protein complexes that we optimize ourselves and express in our in-house bioreactor setup.
Indiana University Bloomington is a large, top-ranked public university with more than 40,000 students on its accoladed limestone campus. Our department has very strong, diverse and supportive virology and biochemistry communities. Our facilities are well-equipped and our group’s lab space is located in Simon Hall that was erected in 2007. The University has a strong athletics program competing in the Big10 conference and attracts many internationally acclaimed artists, musicians and dance companies to perform every year. Bloomington is a liberal and open-minded community located in the beautiful, forested rolling hills of Southern Indiana. Our town has a rich and diverse restaurant and nightlife scene and our surroundings offer countless outdoor activities such as waterskiing, kayaking, paddle-boarding and hiking.
Applications will be reviewed starting immediately and those received by April 19, 2021 will receive full consideration, but review will continue until the position is filled. The anticipated start date will be May 10, 2021 with the possibility to start sooner. Questions regarding the position or application process can be directed to: Charlie Fairns III, (cfairnsi@indiana.edu) or Professor Jesper Pallesen, (pallesen@indiana.edu).
Salary is commensurate with experience. The university offers excellent health insurance and benefits. Detailed benefit information can be found at http://hr.iu.edu/benefits/index.html#loaded.
The College of Arts and Sciences is committed to building and supporting a diverse, inclusive, and equitable community of students and scholars.
Indiana University is an equal employment and affirmative action employer and a provider of ADA services. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ethnicity, color, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, national origin, disability status or protected veteran status.
Basic Qualifications
Interested in candidates with a PhD by the start of appointment in biochemistry, biophysics, chemistry or related fields with relevant experience.
A strong background in biomolecular cryo-EM, protein expression and purification, and the characterization of immunobiological complexes is highly desirable. Candidates should be highly motivated, open to new approaches and techniques, and be able to tackle demanding challenges.
A completed application includes a curriculum vitae, and a brief summary of past research experience. The applicant should also arrange the submission of two or more recommendation letters.
Department Contact for Questions
Charlie Fairns III, (cfairnsi@indiana.edu) or Professor Jesper Pallesen, (pallesen@indiana.edu)
Additional Qualifications
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