Postdoctoral Position to study Protein-Protein Interactions using Molecular
Modeling, Docking and Dynamics Simulations
Case Western Reserve Univ., Medical School, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
How are signaling events transmitted from one protein to another? To answer this question we
are looking to add a postdoctoral co-worker to our interdisciplinary team in order to help us with
computational aspects of a number of projects. Our interest is to understand protein-protein
interactions, protein structure and dynamics in the context of cell signaling mechanisms. {e.g.
J.Biol.Chem.,282, 37215-37224 (2007), Structure 16, 246-258 (2008), J.Mol.Biol. 377, 1474-87
(2008), Protein Science(2009) online 3/18}. The systems include several small GTPases and
their interacting proteins, principally the cytoplasmic domains of plexins and of other receptors.
Computational research in protein biophysics/structural biology. The project will involve
structure refinement calculations using NMR derived restraints (xplor-NIH and HADDOCK),
docking calculations (ROSETTADOCK) as well as free energy type calculations (e.g. FoldX). In
addition we carry out classical as well as accelerated molecular dynamics simulations using
CHARMM/NAMD. There is also the possibility for method development of a primary hydration
shell model (e.g. see Biophys. J. 2007, 92, L49-51; J. Comp. Chem. 2009, online ~5/6/09).
We are looking for a talented and motivated coworker, who aims to become independent
researcher/project leader. Background in molecular modeling and/or simulations is
required. Experience with python, Fortran/C programming is recommended, as is a strong
desire to learn about protein-protein interactions and protein biophysics. The Buck
laboratory provides a stimulating but friendly working environment – we are still relatively small
& young, which has advantages. The Medical School of Case Western Reserve University is
highly rated overall in the US (~ 13th in terms of NIH funding) and Cleveland is a pleasant but
affordable place to live with excellent educational, medical and cultural institutions. Starting
date as soon as possible; salary is NIH scale. Please check out our lab. page for further details
at http://mbalster.case.edu/; if interested, please send your resume, overview of your scientific
interests and career goals as well as contact details of three referees able to provide references by
e-mail to [email protected]