SCIENCE-JOBS-DE

Postdoctoral position in structure-function studies on ethylene-signaling proteins with novel type of ripening-inhibitors (Dusseldorf)

Worldwide a large portion of food produced for human consumption is lost or wasted after harvest due to product deterioration. Consequently, addi-tional and better methods to delay ripening and prevent spoilage of fruits and vegetables are of high political, economic, and social importance. Re-cently, a novel way to interfere with fruit ripening based on a yet unknown function of the nuclear localization signal in the ethylene signaling protein EIN2 has been uncovered (Bisson and Groth, 2015). Peptides mimicking this motif were shown to affect ethylene response in planta and, thus, have the potential to reduce diverse ethylene-specific developmental processes.

In a collaborative research project funded by the Ministry of Innovation, Sci-ence and Research of the state NRW, we aim to resolve the precise binding site and binding mode of this novel type of ripening inhibitors by structural studies. Interaction studies by Microscale Thermophoresis, FRET or tryp-tophan quenching will address binding stoichiometry and molecular specific-ity of the peptide-based inhibitors.

Our institute and the associated X-Ray Facility and Crystal Farm of the Heinrich-Heine University have facilities for protein crystallography (e.g. Bruker-AXS Prospector X8, Incoatec Microfocus beam, Formulatrix Rockimager imaging system, crystallisation robots Beckman Biomek 3000, Matrix Hydra II, Formulatrix NT8). Our lab is also well equipped with instru-ments for biochemical and biophysical analysis (e.g. Microscale Thermo-phoresis, MicroCal ITC, fluorescence spectroscopy, UV/VIS spectroscopy).

We are looking for highly motivated individuals with a strong interest in bio-chemical and structural characterization of protein-ligand complexes to complement our team. The ideal candidate will have experience and a track record of success in biochemistry and protein crystallography.

The position is available from 1st October 2015 or as soon as possible thereafter with funding for two years at a salary according to the German Public Service salary scale EG 13 TV-L.

Please send a cover letter discussing your interests in the laboratory and the project as well as your CV and list of 2 individuals as references to Pro-fessor Dr. Georg Groth, Institute of Biochemical Plant Physiology, Heinrich-Heine University DĆ¼sseldorf, 40225 DĆ¼sseldorf, Germany (georg.groth[at]hhu.de).


Prof. Dr. Georg Groth
georg.groth@hhu.de
Heinrich-Heine UniversitƤt DĆ¼sseldorf
Dusseldorf

Ansprechpartner: georg.groth@hhu.de