Postdoc on protein LLPS : Understanding the transition to amyloids through protein and water dynamics (M/F)

Updated: about 1 month ago
Location: Pessac, AQUITAINE
Job Type: FullTime
Deadline: 02 Apr 2025

13 Mar 2025
Job Information
Organisation/Company

CNRS
Department

Chimie et Biologie des Membranes et des Nanoobjets
Research Field

Chemistry
Biological sciences
Pharmacological sciences
Researcher Profile

First Stage Researcher (R1)
Country

France
Application Deadline

2 Apr 2025 - 23:59 (UTC)
Type of Contract

Temporary
Job Status

Full-time
Hours Per Week

35
Offer Starting Date

19 May 2025
Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme?

Not funded by a EU programme
Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure?

No

Offer Description

Liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) of biological macromolecules can create so-called membraneless organelles where the protein is locally overconcentrated. LLPS can also have a pathological activity by promoting amyloid aggregation, which is involved in several neurodegenerative diseases. Yet, the basic properties of the proteins under LLPS have been scarcely characterized, and the processes leading LLPS to partake in functional or pathological activities are unknown. The aim of this project is to understand how water and protein dynamics is perturbed by LLPS and enable the formation of amyloid assemblies. In particular, we will study the medically important intrinsically disordered proteins tau and alpha-synuclein.

In this project, the candidate will fully map the liquid-to-solid transition occurring when tau and a-synuclein LLPS age. This aging process is highly dependent on the experimental conditions and represent the tilting point between functional and pathological LLPS. The goal of the project is to characterize the protein and hydration dynamics during this aging process. The candidate will combine multiple biophysical methods including NMR, electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy and overhauser dynamic nuclear polarization (ODNP). The project will be in strong collaboration with two american teams (Santa Barbara and Boston) performing simulations as well as a team at ILL (Grenoble) performing neutron scattering experiments. Travels to these locations are planned during this postdoctoral experience.

The position will take place at the CBMN Laboratory (UMR5248) in the team of Y. Fichou (www.fichou-lab.cnrs.fr ), located at the European Institute of Chemistry and Biology (IECB) near Bordeaux. The IECB is a multidisciplinary institute at the interface of biology and chemistry, and is equipped with several platforms (biochemistry, bacteriology, crystallography, NMR, cryo-electron microscopy) that will be accessible during the postdoctoral project. The project is in collaboration with Prof. Shea at UC Santa Barbara, Prof. Straub at Boston Univ. and Prof. Weik in Grenoble.


Where to apply
Website
https://emploi.cnrs.fr/Candidat/Offre/UMR5248-YANFIC-012/Candidater.aspx

Requirements
Research Field
Chemistry
Education Level
PhD or equivalent

Research Field
Biological sciences
Education Level
PhD or equivalent

Research Field
Pharmacological sciences
Education Level
PhD or equivalent

Languages
FRENCH
Level
Basic

Research Field
Chemistry
Years of Research Experience
None

Research Field
Biological sciences
Years of Research Experience
None

Research Field
Pharmacological sciences
Years of Research Experience
None

Additional Information
Eligibility criteria

We are looking for a highly motivated candidate seeking to expend their research experience. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of protein liquid-liquid phase separation and a good background in biophysical methods. An interest in water science is essential as well. This is a great opportunity to embrace a multidisciplinary project combining biochemistry, biophysics and physical chemistry. The successful candidate will be independent and thrive in a small and synergetic team.


Website for additional job details

https://emploi.cnrs.fr/Offres/CDD/UMR5248-YANFIC-012/Default.aspx

Work Location(s)
Number of offers available
1
Company/Institute
Chimie et Biologie des Membranes et des Nanoobjets
Country
France
City
PESSAC
Geofield


Contact
City

PESSAC
Website

http://www.cbmn.u-bordeaux.fr

STATUS: EXPIRED

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