Research Fellow

Overview:
Research Fellow (level A) —Potassium Ion Channel Simulations
- Salary Academic Level A6 - A8 + 17% Superannuation and Flexible Working Arrangements
- Based at the Melbourne CBD campus

Position Summary

An exciting opportunity is available for an outstanding postdoctoral researcher or PhD graduate to investigate the molecular mechanisms of potassium ion channel function and modulation. The aim of this postdoctoral research project is to describe potassium channel conduction, inactivation and modulation mechanisms by employing advanced molecular dynamics methods and analysis. The systems being studied include BK (Big-conductance K), MthK and KcsA potassium channels. The expected outcome is an improved description of fundamental mechanisms of ion channel function and how these proteins respond to physiological and/or pharmacological stimuli to control electrical signalling the body. The computational project, in collaboration with leading experimental researchers in cryo EM and electrophysiology, is funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council. The work is expected to be high impact, with related projects recently published in _Nature _and other top journals, and will provide excellent career possibilities for a talented and driven researcher.

To be considered for this position, the applicant must:
hold (or be about to complete) a PhD in physics, physical chemistry or a closely related discipline; provided the applicant has a relevant research background. have a research background in computation in biophysics, condensed matter physics or physical chemistry. have experience in atomistic simulations of membrane protein systems. A strong preference will be given to applicants with experience in simulations of ion channels. have experience in statistical mechanical theory and molecular dynamics simulations for biophysical problems using existing packages. Preference will be given to those with experience in NAMD/VMD and CHARMM. have a background in using enhanced sampling and free energy methods, such as Umbrella Sampling and Free Energy Perturbation, with expertise in replica methods, such as Replica Exchange with Solute Tempering and Metadynamics, being desirable. possess strong skills in supercomputing using both CPUs and GPUs, programming/scripting in a Unix environment, MD scripting for advanced simulations and analysis, as well as good molecular visualisation skills. demonstrated ability to work well with experimental collaborators to achieve high impact publications. demonstrated experience in paper writing. Ability to independently form high quality paper drafts is essential. demonstrated experience in conference presentation of research findings. demonstrated high level written and verbal communication skills. ability to work autonomously whilst displaying a strong commitment to work in a team environment, including the demonstrated ability to confidently and effectively work with colleagues. demonstrated ability to meet deadlines and effectively manage varying workloads and respond to changing priorities as required.

About the College

The STEM College holds a leading position and expertise in the science, technology, engineering, mathematics and health (STEM) fields. We are uniquely positioned to influence and partner with industry, as never before.

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To Apply

Please submit your CV