Job FOM Institute AMOLF - Postdoc position: Chaperone-mediated protein folding at the single-molecule level

We have recently shown how a protein folding pathway changes upon interactions with a simple chaperone (Science 318, 2007). The aim of this project is to unravel the effect of more complex chaperones, which are driven by an ATP cycle and have a far richer dynamical behaviour. This is class of chaperones is central to a proper functioning of all cells and has been widely studied at a biochemical and structural level. However, little is known about their effect on folding and aggregation pathways and we therefore expect major new findings. This project will benefit from previously developed experimental approach that is based on the laser tweezers technique, and a collaboration with the group of Bernd Bukau (Heidelberg University).

Research

The aim of this project is to unravel how ATP-driven chaperones assist the folding of single protein chains, using optical tweezers.
While chaperones are believed to be essential to folding of proteins in cells, how the protein conformational search is affected by chaperones remains poorly understood. In this project you will reveal this effect by looking at the folding of single proteins, using optical tweezers.

We are looking for an outstanding experimental physicist with an interest in quantitative biophysical topics. The applicant should have a strong drive to excel in a competitive international environment. For the postdoc position you must meet the requirements for a doctors-degree.

FOM prefers candidates who have been obtained their PhD degree abroad and who have not had more than two Postdoc contracts.

You will be employed by the FOM-foundation for a fixed period of 2 years.
Your salary will be up to a maximum of 3,766 euro gross per month, depending on your level of experience.The salary is supplemented with a holiday allowance of 8% and an end-of-year bonus of 8.33%.
The conditions of employment of the FOM-foundation are laid down in the Collective Labour Agreement for Research Centres (CAO-Onderzoekinstellingen), more exclusive information is available at this website under Personeelsinformatie (in Dutch) or under Personnel (in English).
General information about working at FOM can be found in the English part of this website under Personnel. The 'FOM job interview code' applies to this position.

FOM Institute AMOLF performs leading fundamental research on physics of Biomolecular Systems and Nanophotonics; two areas with key potential for technological innovations. The Institute contributes to knowledge transfer to industry and society and trains talented young researchers. AMOLF is located at Science Park Amsterdam, The Netherlands, and engages approximately 140 scientists and 70 support staff. See also www.amolf.nl.
Biophysics: www.amolf.nl/nc/research/biophysics/

Contact

Prof.dr.ir. Sander Tans
Group leader Biophysics
Phone: +31 (0)20 754 71 00