Oregon Health & Science University·Portland, Oregon
The primary responsibility involves conducting research to explore the structural and biophysical mechanisms of synaptic transmission using single particle cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) and cryo-electron tomography (cryo-ET). This includes planning, executing, and analyzing experiments, preparing manuscripts, assisting with grant applications, presenting findings at meetings, and mentoring junior lab members.
Department Overview The Vollum Institute is a privately endowed research institute at Oregon Health & Science University dedicated to basic research that will lead to new treatments for neurological and psychiatric diseases.
Vollum scientists have broad-ranging interests that coalesce around molecular neurobiology and cellular physiology.
Their work has transformed the field of neuroscience and, in particular, have provided important advances in the study of synaptic transmission, neuronal development, neurotransmitter transporters, ion channels and the neurobiology of disease.
Function/Duties of Position This position is full-time and the responsibilities are to conduct research exploring the structural and biophysical mechanisms of synaptic transmission by elucidating the structures of native neurotransmitter receptors or transporters, and their synapses, or elements of the auditory transduction complex, by single particle cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) and cryo-electron tomography (cryo-ET) studies, in combination with complementary biochemical experiments.
Planning, executing, and analyzing experiments for independent research project(s) using biochemical methods and single particle and tomographic cryo-EM methods to elucidate the structure(s) of the target molecule(s) and their organization.
Manuscript preparation for individual projects and assisting other lab members with manuscripts as needed.
Assisting the PI and other lab members with grant application (data acquisition, writing assistance, editing) as needed.
Traveling to national and international meetings to present on findings.
Helping to mentor and train junior members of the laboratory.
Other duties as assigned.
Required Qualifications PhD in biochemistry and biophysics.
Structural studies of biological molecules using cryo-EM, x-ray crystallography or NMR, in addition to complimentary biochemical studies.
Knowledge of cryo-EM, x-ray crystallography, Linux or UNIX computer language, theories and practice, as well as skills related to recombinant DNA technology, protein expression and purification, and basic biochemical analysis, including SDS PAGE and protein chromatography.
In depth experience in single particle cryo-EM and experience with protein expression, purification and biochemical studies, as well as experience in writing manuscripts and preparing and giving presentations. Substantial experience in the publication of own work, as first author, in peer-reviewed publications. Knowledge and skills in the areas of electron microscopy, preparation of EM grids, use and knowledge of computer programs for single particle cryo-EM and knowledge of membrane protein expression and purification from mammalian, insect or bacterial cells, along with accompanying biochemical analysis. Fluent English language skills for writing and speaking, as well as ability to draft manuscripts and prepare oral presentations. Additional Details Standard laboratory work, Monday - Friday, 9:00am - 5:00pm, flexible with some evenings/weekends as experiments demand. Why apply to OHSU? We are Oregon's only public academic health center. In addition to caring for patients, we lead groundbreaking research. We also train the next generation of health care professionals. As Portland's largest employer, we give you opportunities to learn and advance in a system of hospitals and clinics across Oregon and Southwest Washington. All are welcome. OHSU welcomes people of all ages, ethnicities, genders, national origins, religions and sexual orientations. We are striving to build an anti-racist, multicultural institution and encourage people with diverse backgrounds to apply. To request reasonable accommodation, contact askhr@ohsu.edu
Candidates must possess a PhD in biochemistry and biophysics, along with demonstrated experience in structural studies of biological molecules using cryo-EM, X-ray crystallography, or NMR, complemented by biochemical studies. Required knowledge includes cryo-EM theory, Linux/UNIX, recombinant DNA technology, and protein handling techniques.
Market context
Postdoctoral scholar openings in Oregon are typically driven by active university and research-lab hiring, especially in life sciences fields tied to molecular biology and biochemistry. These roles are competitive because employers look for a completed PhD plus hands-on experience with DNA manipulation, protein analysis such as Western blots, and mammalian cell culture. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits on this platform to save time, then tailor your application to match the exact methods and soft skills requested.
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