Postdoctoral researcher in structural bioinformatics and bacteriophage protein evolution Full-time NEW

Postdoctoral Researcher In Structural Bioinformatics And Bacteriophage Protein Evolution

The postdoctoral researcher will join the Protein Evolution research group, led by Gemma C. Atkinson, at the Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University. We use comparative genomics, sensitive protein function prediction and structural bioinformatics to investigate the evolution and molecular mechanisms of microbial biological conflict, particularly interactions between bacteria and bacteriophages. Our computational research is closely integrated with experimental work through collaborations in microbiology, biochemistry and structural biology.

Bacteriophages encode many proteins whose functions and interaction partners remain unknown. This project will combine protein structure and complex prediction with comparative genomics and evolutionary analysis to investigate interactions among bacteriophage proteins and between phage proteins and their bacterial hosts. The aim is to uncover previously uncharacterised molecular interactions and understand how protein evolution shapes their functions in phage biology and virus–host interactions. Computational predictions will provide hypotheses for experimental investigation in collaboration with our research partners.

You will conduct computational research involving Python programming and high-throughput protein structure prediction using high-performance computing infrastructure. You will work closely with other members of the research team and external collaborators. The position offers opportunities to develop your independence as a researcher and broaden your scientific expertise. You may also have opportunities to contribute to teaching and gain experience in supervising Master's students.

Requirements For The Position Are:

• You have a doctoral degree or equivalent foreign degree in bioinformatics, molecular biology, microbiology or a related discipline. The doctoral degree must have been obtained no later than the date on which the appointment decision is made.
• You have the ability to develop and conduct high-quality research.
• You have strong programming skills
• You have in-depth knowledge of bacteriophage molecular biology.
• You have extensive experience in protein structure prediction and its application to biological research.
• Your bacteriophage-related research has been published in reputable journals.

Meritorious For The Position Are:

• Applicants who graduated no more than three years before the closing date for applications.
• You have experience in predicting the functions of uncharacterised proteins by integrating sequence, structural and genomic context information.
• You have experience in interdisciplinary research collaborations.
• You have made open source bioinformatics tools.
• You have teaching ability.

The assessment of applicants will primarily be based on their scientific merits and potential as researchers. Particular emphasis will be placed on scientific ability within the subject area.

We offer a multidisciplinary research environment where bioinformatics, microbiology, biochemistry and structural biology come together to investigate protein function and evolution. You will work closely with computational and experimental researchers, with access to high-performance computing resources. The position offers opportunities to develop your own research ideas, build international collaborations and gain experience in teaching and supervision.

Lund University has generous support for parental leave and favourable offers for training and wellness and an occupational pension. Read more about being employed at Lund University on the university's website, Work with us.