Postdoctoral Fellow
Tech-Dev postdoc position: Systematic mapping of protein-protein interactions Full-time
Description of Position
Dynamic protein complexes and protein-protein interactions (PPI) are integral for the vast majority of normal and cancer associated processes such as cellular metabolism, chromatin structure, signal transduction networks and regulation of growth. Yet, current methods cannot not fully capture this complexity and our inability to simultaneously detect the multiple dynamic interactions that occur in different conditions is a major roadblock that prevents comprehensive mapping of the molecular networks that underlie normal and disease biology and advance precision medicine.
While current tools to study PPI (e.g., co-IP or affinity purification–mass spectrometry (AP-MS)) may offer means for studying networks of interactors in an unbiased manner, they have several key limitations, and most studies are focused on a single or a handful of factors in settings that have limited physiological relevance. Thus, current data does not encompass the multi-factorial manner in which the dynamic organization of protein complexes affect biology.
We are developing a novel method, Prod-seq, that enables simultaneous identification and characterization of multiple interactions between proteins within functional complexes. This tool is designed to allow high-throughput queries of the dynamic interactions of proteins and expands the focus from single interactions towards an unprecedented, multi-dimensional interrogation of the cellular complexity.
Environment
This project will be conducted under the mentorship of Alon Goren. The Goren group (https://goren-lab.github.io/) focuses on studying genomic and epigenomic mechanisms, and merges the study of basic and disease biology, technological innovations and computational analyses. This position offers an exciting opportunity to lead a high-profile project. The successful candidate will become a member of the vibrant UCSD genomics/epigenomics community and will focus on cutting edge research in genomic regulation. Finally, this project will provide a key opportunity for lead authorship on highly impactful publications merging technology innovations and biology/medicine.
Qualifications Required/Academic Background
We are looking for a highly motivated and independent post-doctoral scholar to be a scientific driver of this ambitious project. In particular, the successful candidate should have these qualifications:
- Ph.D. in Biology, Molecular Biology, Chemical Biology or a related discipline.
- Experience in molecular or chemical biology techniques, preferably genomic.
- Ability to communicate scientific material and collaborate well.
- Creativity, high motivation and independence.
- Desire to work in a dynamic, multidisciplinary research environment.
- Ability and will to drive and lead a project.
Application Procedure
Interested individuals should email a cover letter and their resume with names and contact information of at least three references to: Alon Goren, PhD, email: agoren@ucsd.edu.