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The Department of Chemistry is looking for a staff scientist in a project developing chemogenetic and chemo-optogenetic systems. Apply by September 27 2024.
Description
Chemical/light-inducible approaches provide means to control biological systems with spatial and temporal resolution that is unmatched by traditional genetic perturbations. Our laboratory has pioneered in the development of chemo-optogenetic systems (Chem 2019 review, Nat Meth 2023). We have developed the first bioorthogonal and reversible chemically induced dimerization (CID) system (SLF’-TMP system) for controlling protein function by small molecules in live cells (Angew Chem 2014). A photoactivatable CID (pCID) using photo-caged dimerizer (NovcTMP-Cl) (Angew Chem 2017) and photo-switchable CID system (psCID) using photo-switchable dimerizer (CONC) allow superior spatiotemporal control of protein function in live cells (Angew Chem 2018). We have developed novel “Molecular Activity Painting (MAP)” strategy by combining pCID with immobilized artificial receptors to enable “painting” of signaling molecules and their activity at micrometer-scale at the plasma membrane. Using photoactivatable dual-chemically induced dimerization (pdCID) system, we developed a Multi-directional Activity Control (MAC) approach to spatiotemporally control cellular signaling and intracellular cargo transport (Angew Chem 2018).
This project will focus on development of chemogenetic and chemo-optogenetic systems, which enable the activity to be controlled by small molecule or light with high spatial and temporal resolution in live cells and organisms. The techniques used in the project include protein/peptide synthesis, organic synthesis and cell imaging.
Working tasks
The senior research engineer will work on but not limited to:
- design and conduct experiments in chemical biology research using modified proteins and peptides;
- process and analyse results and data;
- communicate results with the supervisor and other group members;
- supervise students;
- write research papers.
Qualifications
The required qualification is a doctoral degree in chemical biology, synthetic chemistry or equivalent. The successful candidate should have several years of research experience at postdoctoral level in chemical biology, biochemistry, molecular biology or related field. The candidate is expected to design and execute projects independently but also in close collaboration with other members of the team, independence and good ability to collaborate is therefore a requirement. Good command of written and spoken English is also a requirement.
Experiences in organic synthesis, protein/peptide chemistry, protein expression and purification, and/or cell imaging are strong merits, as is a good record of research publication within these areas.
Application
The application should include:
- Cover letter including research interests, qualifications and motivation for applying (max 2 pages),
- CV including list of publications,
- Certified copies of doctoral degree certificate and other relevant degree certificates,
- Names and contact details of at least two reference persons,
- Other relevant documents.
The application should be written in English or Swedish and submitted via our e-recruitment system. Last day to apply is September 27 2024.
For further information, please contact Professor Yaowen Wu, e-mail: yaowen.wu@umu.se. Website: https://www.umu.se/en/staff/yaowen-wu/
We look forward to receiving your application.
