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Multidrug transporters mediate the active extrusion of cytotoxic agents away from their intracellular targets. They are pharmacologically important proteins in humans that participate in the distribution and elimination of drugs, and can confer drug resistance on cancer cells. These transporters are also expressed in plants and in microbial pathogens associated with some of the most devastating diseases in the world; in this capacity they can impair antimicrobial chemotherapy. Ongoing studies on multidrug efflux pumps have revealed many intriguing functional and biochemical features. However, a gap remains in our knowledge regarding the transport mechanisms and broad specificity for structurally unrelated substrates.
A BBSRC-funded postdoctoral position is now available for up to 3 years in the Department of Pharmacology, University of Cambridge, in the research group led by Dr Hendrik W. van Veen to study drug recognition and transport by a multidrug transporter from Vibrio cholerae. See Van Veen (2010) Nature 467, 926-927 for further information. The project will use molecular modelling as a basis for mutational analyses, and aims to reconstitute purified wildtype and mutant proteins in proteoliposomes, and to characterize these proteins through measurements of substrate transport and binding.
Applicants should be highly motivated, enthusiastic individuals, capable of thinking and working independently, and must have experience in molecular modelling and the purification and reconstitution of membrane proteins. Candidates should have or shortly expect to obtain a PhD in a related subject.
Closing date: 13 September 2013
The University of Cambridge is committed to equality of opportunity.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
Limited funding: The funds for this post are available for 3 years in the first instance.
This appointment is subject to a health assessment. Whether an outcome is satisfactory will be determined by the University. |