Postdoc in Structural Proteomics of Chromatin-Assembled Complexes : Munich , Germany

A postdoctoral fellow position is available in the research group of Biological Mass Spectrometry headed by Franz Herzog at the Gene Center of the Ludwig-Maximilians Universität (LMU) in Munich.
The lab investigates chromatin-assembled protein complexes using quantitative and structural mass spectrometric workflows. For the structural elucidation we identify the positions of amino acid specific crosslinks by mass spectrometry. These crosslinks provide unique restraints for the prediction of hybrid structural models which reveal complex topologies at the level of protein domains. We combine mass spectrometry with biochemistry and cell biology in budding yeast and human cells to analyse the architecture, assembly and mechanism of cellular protein structures.
We are especially interested in understanding the architecture of the kinetochore, a macromolecular protein complex built on centromeric chromatin. The kinetochore guides the accurate segregation of chromosomes and is crucial for the maintenance of centromere identity by providing a structural framework and a platform for regulatory feedback mechanisms. We use architectural models based on crosslink-derived restraints to design and test mutants that affect the assembly and function of the kinetochore.

Your profile: We are looking for a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher who shares our enthusiasm for interdisciplinary research combining mass spectrometry with structural and cell biology. Qualified candidates should have strong background in one or more of the following areas: cell cycle, chromatin biology, protein biochemistry, structural biology, mass spectrometry. Scientists who are about to graduate with PhD, or have recently graduated are especially encouraged to apply and should make contact as early as possible to discuss potential fellowship applications. At least one excellent first author publication during PhD training is essential.

Position: The position is funded for an initial period of 2 years by junior research grants of the European Research Council and the Human Frontier Science Program. Selected candidates have to explore available funding opportunities. The salary is according to the TV-L. The University of Munich is an equal opportunity employer. Handicapped candidates with equal qualifications will be given preference.

Research Environment: The Gene Center is a cross-disciplinary institute of the LMU providing a dynamic, interactive and international scientific environment, located within the biomedical research campus in München-Martinsried. The research agenda of the Gene Center is focused on understanding how the genetic information stored on chromosomes is expressed and maintained in the cell. Disciplines represented at the Gene Center include structural biology, biochemistry, genetics, cell biology and computational modeling of molecular systems.