Postdoctoral researcher, Biomedicine/physics/chemistry

On 1st January 2010, Linnaeus University opened its doors for the first time as Sweden’s newest university, the result of a merger between Kalmar University and Växjö University.Linnaeus University (LnU) is a modern, international university in southern Sweden. The university is situated in Kalmar and Växjö with 34,000 students and 2,000 employees. For more information see: lnu.se.

Research in biomedical sciences and biotechnology at LnU is performed within the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences where strong research areas at Department of Chemistry and Biomedical sciences include molecular biophysics and biotechnology. The research group now looking for a Postdoc, is working in the latter areas with focus on molecular motors and their use in nanotechnological applications.

 

The project is a part of an EU-FP7 project ABACUS starting on January 1, 2014. The aim is to develop and benchmark a new computation paradigm to solve NP-hard mathematical problems in a parallel manner by utilizing self-propelled motion of biological agents (myosin propelled actin filaments, kinesin propelled microtubules and/or microorganisms) in a designed network explored by a very large number of agents. The project is highly inter-disciplinary requiring expertise ranging from mathematics, computer science, physics, biophysics and biochemistry to microbiology. Here we are looking for a postdoc to take major experimental responsibility for development of the actin-myosin based computational approach. Major challenges involve modification of actin filament flexibility and dynamics to allow better control of the myosin driven transportation of actin filaments through nanostructured artificial networks. Other possible challenges involve use of different myosin motors or conditions to increase actomyosin transportation velocity and shelf-life.

 

Successful candidates have a doctorate in Biochemistry, Biophysics, Bioenginering or similar field. Research experience is expected to include in vitro studies of molecular motors (mainly actin-myosin), protein expression, isolation, purification and characterization with focus on actin, myosin and accessory proteins e.g. fascin, gelsolin, CapZ etc. Additional experience of Matlab programming and in depth insights into key concepts in polymer mechanics and dynamics are of relevance. A preparedness to learn new methods and approaches and to take active part in interdisciplinary, international collaborations is essential. Start date: January 1, 2014 or as soon as possible thereafter.

 

More information from group leader, Professor Alf Månsson (alf.mansson@lnu.se ).  See also: http://lnu.se/personal/alf.mansson 

 

Applications
Applications in English should be registered no later than December 1, 2013. More information will be found on the Linnaeus University homepage, under the heading Work with us, where you also apply. Applicants should submit CV, publication list, documentations of exams and grades, a brief statement of research interests and contact information (phone number and e-mail) for at least two reference persons. Mark you application with Reference nr PA 2013/476-2.2.1.