In the Research Group Macromolecular Interactions at the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI) in Braunschweig, Germany. We are looking for an open-minded, enthusiastic candidate motivated to employ solid-state NMR spectroscopy to study the molecular mechanisms of host-pathogen interactions involved in innate immunity. The project focuses on the recognition of bacterial amyloid-like fibrils by specific host proteins and aims to identify molecular patterns of these fibrils recognized by the innate immune system. The successful candidate will join an interactive, dedicated team using NMR spectroscopy in combination with a wide range of state-of-the-art biophysical and proteinbiochemical techniques to study the structure and function of amyloids and other ordered aggregates in bacterial and viral infections. The project will be carried out in close collaboration with Dr. Barth van Rossum at the FMP in Berlin, and there will be the opportunity to tightly interact with both groups.
The HZI is a member of the Helmholtz Association of German Research Centres and dedicated to undertake biomedical research in the field of infection biology to expand our knowledge of the fundamental mechanisms behind medically relevant infectious diseases. It is part of a lively scientific community connected to the Technical University of Braunschweig, the University of Hannover and the Hannover Medical School. The Institute offers excellent working conditions for structural biologists, with state of the art technical equipment including facilities for the expression of proteins in mammalian, insect cell and bacterial systems, and excellent support for the development of personal soft-skills.
Prerequisites:
Strong experience in biomolecular NMR spectroscopy, ability to work as part of an international team and excellent communication skills in English (written and spoken) are a prerequisite. Experience in protein expression and purification will be considered an advantage. Candidates should hold a PhD in biophysics, biochemistry, chemistry, biology or related fields.
Starting date: as soon as possible
Duration: Initial contract for 2 years, with option for extension
Salary: TVöD E13 + Bonus to E14
Please send your application including CV, publication list, statement of research interests and the contact data of at least two referees referring to code 68/2011 to:
Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Dept. of Human Resources, Inhoffenstraße 7,
38124 Braunschweig, or by E-Mail: JobsHZI@helmholtz-hzi.de
For further information, please contact Prof. Christiane Ritter
Telephone: +49-531-6181-7065, e-mail: christiane.ritter@helmholtz-hzi.de.
