Jobs in Structural Biology and Related Fields


Postdoctoral Position: Structural and functional studies of eukaryotic membrane proteins


University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
Application deadline: 06 Sep 2020


The Autzen Lab at the Department of Biology invites applications for a postdoc position in membrane protein biochemistry and structural biology at University of Copenhagen, Denmark. We are looking for a highly motivated, talented and self-driven researcher able to apply single-particle cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) in combination with biochemical, pharmacological and cellular techniques to characterize eukaryotic membrane proteins involved in taste signaling.

The position is set to begin 1 December 2020, or as soon as possible thereafter. The position is limited to two years.

University of Copenhagen is an international work and study environment commemorating democracy, openness and equal opportunities. The Autzen Lab welcomes applicants of any ethnicity, religion, national origin, gender identity, caregiver and family commitments, political affiliation, sexual orientation, and eligible age or ability or another personal background.

Research area and project description

Our sensation of taste influences our dietary choices and alert us about harmful food, but the underlying molecular mechanisms taste sensations are poorly understood. The successful postdoc applicant will employ single-particle cryo-EM in combination with biochemical, pharmacological and cellular techniques to study the structure, dynamics and function of eukaryotic membrane-embedded proteins involved in taste signaling. The outcome of the project will yield unprecedented molecular insight into taste perception and delineate the therapeutic and diagnostic potential of an entire family of proteins.

The project is funded by a grant from the Novo Nordisk Foundation.

Research environment:

The Autzen Lab at University of Copenhagen

The successful applicant will become a member of the newly established Autzen Lab, a young and vibrant research group part of the Linderstrøm-Lang Centre for Protein Science within the Section for Biomolecular Sciences, Department of Biology. Home for 11 labs specializing in cellular and protein biology, protein design or structural biology, the Section for Biomolecular Sciences is an international and multidisciplinary workplace, offering a creative and stimulating working environment.

The Autzen Lab is focused on characterizing the activation and modulation of membrane proteins involved in taste signaling to delineate their basic function and therapeutic potential. In extension, the lab is focused on developing tools for detergent-free membrane protein purification to conserve native protein-lipid interactions. The lab houses facilities for mammalian protein production, purification, biochemical and biophysical characterizations and data processing. The lab has access to state-of-the-art cryo-EM suites at the Core Facility for Integrated Microscopy on campus and at the iNANO Cryo-EM facility at Aarhus University a three-hour drive away.

Project focus areas

The specific aim of the project is to study the structure, dynamics and function of eukaryotic membrane-embedded proteins involved in taste signaling. Practically, you will design and clone targets and express and purify well-behaved constructs to subject them to single-particle cryo-EM and optical analytical techniques to characterize protein-ligand and protein-lipid interactions. You will also develop and apply cell-based assays for further functional characterization. The position offers a mixture of techniques, and you are expected to steer the project in the required direction. You will work in a highly collaborative environment and are expected to participate in mentoring PhD students and other junior researchers in the lab.

Your qualifications

Experience within membrane protein structural biology is an advantage, but not a requirement. The formal requirements of the successful applicant are:

  • A PhD in structural biology, biophysics or biochemistry.
  • An excellent scientific track record, including a first-author publication within the field of structural biology, biophysics or biochemistry.
  • Experience with recombinant DNA techniques and cloning.
  • Experience with protein expression and purification.
  • Experience in data management and reporting.
  • Demonstrated ability to quickly grasp and employ new methods and tools.
  • An ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Proficiency in spoken and written English, with good interpersonal communication skills.
  • High level of motivation, responsibility, and ability to work in a structured manner.

As criteria for the assessment of your qualifications, emphasis will be laid on publications and relevant research experience. In addition to the formal requirements above, we are looking for a candidate that has experience within or strong qualifications for the following areas:

  • Membrane protein expression and purification.
  • Membrane protein-ligand binding assays.
  • Cryo-EM, X-ray crystallography and/or NMR.
  • Cryo-EM data processing and/or protein modelling.
  • Basic programming (MatLab and/or Python).

What we offer

An exciting and stimulating research project set in a creative, strong and international academic environment.
An open and inclusive work environment with dedicated colleagues.
Room for personal and professional development.

Living in Copenhagen, Denmark

Despite cold and rainy days in plenty, Denmark is among the happiest according to the World Happiness Report and Copenhagen is regularly ranked among top 5 cities to live in, particularly for expats. Whether you are into ancient sculptures or contemporary art, opera or heavy metal Copenhagen is ready to teach, inspire and entertain. Furthermore, with an extensive public transportation system, beautiful, tranquil nature is only minutes away from the city center.

For more information on working and living in Denmark, visit University of Copenhagen’s website on International Staff Mobility and WorkinDenmark.

How to apply

Your application must be written in English and submitted electronically on the University of Copenhagen website. This will prompt you to create a profile on the internal HR application system. In addition to details on your degree and formal qualifications, the application must include the following:

  • Cover letter (max. one page), detailing your background and motivation for applying.
  • Curriculum vitae describing your education, research and work experience, language skills and other relevant skills (max. two pages).
  • A certified/signed copy of your PhD certificate and Master of Science certificate or a written statement from your supervisor if your PhD is yet to be completed.
  • Publication list including papers submitted or accepted for publication.
  • Highlight of 1-3 of your most significant publications.
  • Full contact details (name, address, email) of two or more professional referees.
  • Other relevant material.

Start date and duration

The start date is 1 December 2020 or as soon as possible thereafter. The position is limited to two years.

The deadline for applying is 6 September 2020 23:59 GMT+2.

Applications received after the deadline, with insufficient documentation or otherwise fail to comply with the above requirements will not be considered.

More information can be found here.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Postdoctoral Position: Structural and functional studies of eukaryotic membrane proteins