Purpose: The Biology and Soft Matter Division of the Neutron Sciences Directorate of ORNL runs world-class scientific neutron crystallography and neutron scattering programs. The Biology and Soft Matter Division, in partnership with collaborators at the University of California-San Diego and the University of Utah, has an immediate opening for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to participate in an NIH-funded collaborative translational project directed to developing a new generation of accelerated oxime reactivators of nerve agent and pesticide organophosphate(OP)-inhibited human acetylcholinesterase (hAChE). The successful candidate will investigate the structure and function of hAChE, and identify structurally imposed limiting factors in oxime reactivation of the enzyme inhibited by OP. The postdoctoral researcher will join the research team that uses a multidisciplinary approach combining biochemistry, X-ray and neutron crystallography, small-angle scattering (SAXS, TR-SAXS, SANS), neutron spectroscopy and computational modeling (QM/MM/MD) to understand how slow molecular motions, protonation and ionization states in the mechanism of oxime reactivation of OP-inhibited hAChE influence and in effect limit antidotes’ efficacy. Major Duties/Responsibilities: --Responsible for protein purification, protein-ligand complexes preparation, crystal growth, and X-ray and neutron crystallographic studies. --Assist in sample preparation for SANS and neutron spectroscopic measurements, and with data collection. --Assist with collaborative crystallographic projects of ORNL neutron diffractometers MaNDi and IMAGINE at the 25% level of effort, including data collection, processing, structure refinement/analysis. --Responsible for publishing papers based on this research and assist with publishing collaborative manuscripts. --Present results at national and international conferences. Qualifications Required: A Ph.D. in biochemistry, biophysics or a related discipline completed within the last 5 years is required. Research experience with biochemical methods for production, purification and crystallization of proteins, and X-ray crystallography is required. Candidates should be self-motivated, have good interpersonal, communication and presentation skills and a demonstrated ability to interact effectively with staff at all levels. The ability to work as a member of a multi-disciplinary team is a critical asset.
Qualifications Desired: Knowledge of mechanistic biochemistry is highly desirable. The aspiration to learn is highly desirable. Other Requirements: Applicants must have received their PhD within five years of this application and must complete all degree requirements before starting their appointment. To apply, please send the most current CV and a list of publications directly to Andrey Kovalevsky (kovalevsk...@ornl.gov)
