The Polikanov Lab is seeking a Visiting Research Specialist. The successful candidate will conduct research by using X-ray crystallography techniques to obtain a structural basis for various functions of the bacterial ribosome and its inhibition by different small-molecule inhibitors. The successful candidate should have a strong theoretical background in standard biochemical, molecular biology, and biophysical methods, as well as practical skills in the most standard methods currently used in molecular biology and biochemistry (such as protein expression, purification, etc.). Knowledge in X-ray crystallography or other structural techniques is desired but not required. Expert-level knowledge of the programming languages (such as Python) is highly desirable.
The successful candidate would conduct his own research and assist with the principal investigator’s research while training other laboratory personnel in various techniques, experiments, and the appropriate use of research equipment. He/She would also perform data analysis and manage, document, and help with the dissemination of research activities for publication and outreach.
Duties:
• Perform research relevant to the assigned projects;
• Isolate and crystallize bacterial ribosomes;
• Purify all additional components necessary for the crystallization experiments, such as recombinant proteins, tRNAs;
• Collect X-ray diffraction data from the ribosome crystals at the APS Synchrotron;
• Perform data analysis; coordinate, analyze, and document results for publication;
• Directly participate in writing papers and grants based on the experimental data;
• Train undergraduate and graduate students in research methods, use of equipment, record keeping, and laboratory database entry;
• Attend weekly group meetings and journal clubs.
Minimum qualifications:
• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biochemistry, biophysics, or a related field;
• Master’s degree or higher is preferred;
• Minimum 3 years of laboratory research experience;
• Strong background in biochemistry and molecular biology;
• Practical skills with the most standard methods currently used in molecular biology, and biochemistry (such as protein expression, purification);
• Experience in structural biology (cryo-EM or X-ray crystallography) is desired;
• Experience in RNA biology is desired.
• The successful candidate should be able to walk into the laboratory and be able to start working without significant additional training in basic molecular biology techniques.
For fullest consideration, interested candidates should submit an application, including CV, cover letter, and contact information for three references at https://jobs.uic.edu/job-board/job-details?jobID=149023 by August 9, 2021. Questions can be directed to Dr. Polikanov at yuryp@uic.edu. In the cover letter, describe what your scientific interests are and how your previous research accomplishments and scientific interests fit with the scope of the research in the Polikanov research group.
The University of Illinois at Chicago is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action employer including Disability/Vets.
Offers of employment by the University of Illinois may be subject to approval by the University’s Board of Trustees and are made contingent upon the candidate’s successful completion of any criminal background checks and other pre-employment assessments that may be required for the position being offered. Additional information regarding such pre-employment checks and assessments may be provided as applicable during the hiring process.
The University of Illinois System requires candidates selected for hire to disclose any documented finding of sexual misconduct or sexual harassment and to authorize inquiries to current and former employers regarding findings of sexual misconduct or sexual harassment. For more information, visit https://www.hr.uillinois.edu/cms/One.aspx? portalId=4292&pageId=1411899
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Yury Polikanov, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
Department of Biological SciencesCollege of Liberal Arts and Sciences
University of Illinois at Chicago
900 South Ashland Avenue, MBRB 4170
Chicago, IL 60607
Tel: 1-312-413-2408 (Office)
Tel: 1-312-355-0463 (Laboratory)
Fax: 1-312-413-2691
