PhD position in Molecular Biology & Biophysics

Job description

We are looking for an enthusiastic and highly-motivated candidate to investigate how the microtubule cytoskeleton is regulated by protein complexes such as the gamma-TuRC. Potential projects goals will include, but are not limited to, using structural biology methods such as cryo-electron microscopy and X-ray crystallography, as well as single molecule light microscopy such as Total Internal Reflection Fluorescence (TIRF), to visualize components of the gamma-TuRC as the complex nucleates microtubules.

The group has access to state-of-the-art light and electron microscopy instrumentation, including a Nikon N-STORM equipped for TIRF microscopy and multiple Titan Krios EM scopes, all hosted and maintained at ETH Zurich’s imaging facility, Scope

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This is a fully funded position for 4 years with an anticipated start date of September 1st, (negotiable).

Further project details will be discussed further in the interview.

• Research interest in cell biology, structural biology, biochemistry and / or biophysics
• Curiosity about the inner workings of the cell and a passion for basic science are a plus
• Experience with basic molecular biology, cell culturing, and / or protein purification methods are a plus
• Experience with cryo-EM sample preparation and structure determination using various modern software tools (e.g. cryo
  
  SPARC and RELION) are a plus
• An MSc degree in biochemistry, cell biology, structural biology, biophysics, or disciplines related to the PhD position
• The writing of scientific papers and active participation in internal meetings and in international conferences will require a good knowledge of English