The Institute of Molecular Systems Biology at ETH Zurich is inviting applications for a Postdoctoral Fellow in the laboratory of Prof. Pedro Beltrao.
Project background
Proteins are the key effectors of the cell and studying their structure can help understand their function, evolution and facilitate the development of novel therapies. Over the past few years there have been exciting developments in computational methods to predict protein structure from sequence and for the rational design of proteins with specific structural properties. Our group, in collaboration with others, has been making use of these methods to study their applications and limitations in diverse areas of structural bioinformatics (Akmed et al. NSMB 2022). We have applied AlphaFold2 in large scale to predict structures of human protein-protein interactions (Burke et al. NSMB 2023), work we have continued to expand upon. More recently, we have also made use of predicted structures across the protein universe to study protein evolution based on structural comparisons on a unprecedented scale (Barrio-Hernandez et al. Nature 2023). We are inviting applications from scientists with a background in structural bioinformatics to work on areas of shared interest with the group.
Job description
Applicants with a background in structural bioinformatics are invited to develop research projects that will contribute to a better understanding of protein structure on a large scale. Areas of interest in the lab include: structural models of whole cell interactions networks and large protein complex assemblies; structural consequences of protein variants; protein binding pocket predictions, pocket similarity metrics and pocket-ligand binding; evolution of protein structures function and interactions in large scale; protein design as modulators of cell function or therapeutic agents.
Profile
- Doctoral degree for work in areas related to structural bioinformatics is required
- Proactive personality, excellent communication skills and capacity to work with a diverse group of people
- Strong background in working with large numbers of protein structures is required
- Experience in using and developing deep learning methods is preferred
- Experience with using protein design approaches is preferred
- Further, any experience and interest in doing wet lab work is of advantage
We offer
You will be part of a team of scientists with diverse expertise including lab work and computational expertise in areas ranging from human genetics to proteomics, cell signalling and protein structures. The Institute of Molecular Systems Biology is at the forefront of MS technology development and systematic approaches to study biological systems. The broader world leading research at ETH has major strengths that complement the research of the institute. You will have the opportunity and flexibility to develop your career plan in the direction of interest and have support for training.
In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.
Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich
We value diversity
We look forward to receiving your online application by 20th July 2024 with the following documents:
- Cover letter describing your background and motivation
- CV and publication list
- Contact information of 2 – 3 potential referees
Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered. For further information about the position and the group please contact Prof. Pedro Beltrao by e-mail: beltrao@imsb.biol.ethz.ch (no applications) or visit our website.
Evaluation of applications will start on 21st July 2024, but later applications will also be considered until the position is filled and the online application window has been closed.
