2 ERC-funded postdoctoral positions in Nucleic Acid Immunity

Two postdoctoral positions are available in the Nucleic Acid Immunity lab of Jonathan Maelfait at the VIB-UGent Center for Inflammation Research (https://www.irc.ugent.be/index.php/groups/maelfait-team ). The work is part of an ERC project aimed at understanding the molecular and structural principles behind activation of ZBP1, a nucleic acid sensor with relevance in antiviral defense and inflammatory pathologies.

We are looking for two postdocs with very good communications skills and an enthusiasm for fundamental science.

Recent PhD in structural biology and demonstrated experience with:

• X-ray crystallography and/or Cryo-EM
• Modelling of protein-nucleic acid interactions
• Techniques in protein purification

This candidate will investigate the structural requirements that determine ZBP1 activation. This part of the project will be performed in collaboration with the unit of Structural Biology of Savvas Savvides. The candidate will be able to make use of state-of-the-art in house Cryo-EM/Cryo-ET facilities.

Recent PhD in molecular biology and demonstrated experience with:

• Analysis of RNA/DNA sequencing data
• Purification of protein complexes
• Nucleic acid chemistry
• Cell culture

This candidate will investigate the molecular requirements that determine ZBP1 agonism using RNA and DNA sequencing technologies.

Essential

Both positions require:

• A thesis-based doctorate
• Hands-on experience with techniques in molecular biology and biochemistry
• Excellent English speaking and writing skills

Desirable but not required 

• You have one or more first-author publication(s) in peer-reviewed scientific journals
• You have knowledge in innate immunity

• A state-of-the-art laboratory environment to perform structural and molecular biology
• A highly stimulating and supporting international research environment.
• Opportunities to train in nucleic acid immunity and structural biology
• Training courses in academic, technical, and career skills
• A competitive salary and a range of benefits including a bicycle allowance and eco vouchers
• Funding for up to 4 years
• Earliest start date: 1 March 2024

Interested candidates can apply through the VIB online application tool. Please upload: your CV and your motivation letter containing contact information of 2 references.

The first review of applications will start immediately. A shortlist of applicants will be selected and invited for interviews. For further information and questions, please send an email to Jonathan Maelfait ([email protected]).