DEADLINE: Open until Filled

CONTEXT OF JOB:

The Rozovsky research group is looking for a Postdoctoral Fellow to join our investigation of the contribution of membrane enzymes to the function of complex protein machineries. The fellow will be expected to advance scholarship toward understanding protein quality control involving the ER-associated protein degradation (ERAD) pathway. The ERAD complex itself is responsible for handing misfolded protein and protein assemblies to the proteasome for degradation, a process that -if impaired- is strongly linked to neurodegenerative and protein misfolding diseases.

This study focuses on two integral membrane selenoproteins (SELENOS and SELENOK) that contribute to the ERAD pathway. Selenoproteins are a specialized group of enzymes that contain the reactive amino acid selenocysteine and they are primarily involved in oxidative health and redox biology. SELENOS is an adaptor responsible for recruitment of the protein p97 which delivers the energy for unfolding and pulling proteins to the ERAD complex. However, the timing and specific location of p97 employment is tightly controlled because this protein takes part in several other cellular processes. It appears that this control of p97 by SELENOS is particularly important when the ER is under oxidative stress. In contrast, SELENOK's precise function is still unknown, but maybe related to palmitoylation of ERAD components and thus this selenoprotein is potentially involved in the management of location and lifetime of complex members.

The fellowship is supported by a NIH-grant. This is a temporary position, with an initial appointment of one year. Continuation of the position is contingent upon funding and satisfactory research progress.

To qualify for the position, the candidate must have attained a PhD in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Chemical Biology, Biophysics or any related field. The successful candidate should possess significant skills in biochemical assays, cellular studies and structural characterizations.

When applying, please submit a one-page cover letter and CV (to include list of publications and the names and contact information of three references) as one document.

To apply please click here!