Protein engineering - E. coli metabolic regulation
Evolvability of proteins and emergence of new functions
We are using in vivo selections in E. coli to create de novo proteins from large libraries of randomized polypeptides that enable the bacteria to survive. We are also employing directed evolution to fine-tune the activities of the artificial proteins we have identified. An overarching theme for our group is the use of combinatorial protein libraries to tackle fundamental questions related to the origin and evolution of functional proteins. We are particularly interested in enzyme evolution and in elucidating basic principles of biocatalysis.
The applicant should have a Ph.D., expertise in bacterial metabolism, molecular biology and biochemistry, a strong publication record, excellent communication skills, and enthusiasm and motivation for science in a collaborative environment.
Our lab is part of the interdisciplinary BioTechnology Institute at the University of Minnesota - one of the largest research universities in the US. We are located in the heart of the vibrant Minneapolis-Saint Paul area, home to 3.4 Million people and urban center of the ‘Land of Ten Thousand Lakes’.
The Postdoctoral Associate / Research Scholar (RS) will be responsible for the design and execution experimental work on bacterial metabolic analyses, the selection and directed evolution of proteins, as well as characterization of proteins. The RS will also be responsible for writing manuscripts communicating the analysis results, and is expected to perform research activities independently and in collaboration with other team members. The RS is expected to train undergraduate students, graduate students and technical staff. Finally, the RS participates actively in relevant seminars, journal clubs and symposia.
80 % Research
Designing, planning, carrying out and reporting on experimental work on protein engineering, the selection and directed evolution of proteins as well as characterization of proteins.
5 % Writing Publications
Drafting scientific manuscripts to communicate the results.
5 % Training and Supervising Others
Training and supervising other staff and students in the laboratory.
5 % General Laboratory Tasks
Performing laboratory maintenance, safety and organization tasks.
5 % Presentation of Research Results
Participating regularly in lab meetings, seminars, journal clubs and symposia.