An exciting opportunity exists for a Research Officer to join the Structural Biology and Chemical Biology Divisions to study the molecular details of the Bcl-2 family of proteins and their role in apoptosis.
The Bcl-2 protein family plays a central role in apoptotic regulation. The family consists of two opposing factions, the pro-survival proteins and the pro apoptotic proteins such as Bax and Bak. In healthy cells Bax and Bak are bound to, and thus inhibited by, the pro-survival proteins. During apoptosis Bax and Bak are displaced from pro-survivals and activated. This leads to homo-oligomerization of Bax and Bak at the mitochondrial membrane. The structures for soluble pro-survival proteins and inactive Bax and Bak have been well characterized. In contrast, little is known about the details of the proteins in their active, oligomeric, membrane bound states. This project will seek to characterise these complexes using protein crystallography and other biophysical techniques. Key aims of the research program are: • To determine structures for Bcl-2 family protein complexes as they occur at the mitochondrial membrane. • To characterize interactions between Bcl-2 family proteins in a membrane environment. The successful candidate will have recently completed/or be close to completing a PhD in Structural Biology, Biochemistry or equivalent, and have familiarity with protein purification and characterization. Experience with membrane proteins and/or protein crystallography would be an advantage. This position will primarily be based in the laboratory of Professor Peter Colman within the Structural Biology Division. The appointee will report directly to Dr Peter Czabotar. This position is for 1 year in the first instance with funding available for 3 years. Salary is dependent on qualifications and experience. Up to 17% superannuation and attractive salary packaging options are available. Enquiries on the role can be directed to Dr Peter Czabotar – czabo...@wehi.edu.au Written applications including CV and the names of 3 professional referees should be forwarded to: Human Resources Manager, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, 1G Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria 3052 Alternatively, email your application to jobapplicati...@wehi.edu.au Closing Date: Monday 10th May 2010 ______________________________________________________________________ The information in this email is confidential and intended solely for the addressee. You must not disclose, forward, print or use it without the permission of the sender. ______________________________________________________________________
