Job description: A postdoctoral position is available in the group of Dirk Fasshauer at the Department of Fundamental Neurosciences, University of Lausanne. The group is investigating the conserved protein machinery involved in the fusion of transport vesicles in eukaryotic cells, in particular the proteins driving the release of neurotransmitters from synaptic vesicles. To come to a better understanding, we focus on a detailed biochemical characterization of the underlying protein-protein interactions. In the past few years we picked up computational methods to complement our research (e.g. http://bioinformatics.mpibpc.mpg.de/rab/). The key objective of this approach is to establish a detailed evolutionary description of the vesicle fusion machinery. We want to uncover how the interaction network has adapted in different eukaryotic lineages and how it was most probably organized in the proto-eukaryotic cell. For our approach, we have developed a unique system to classify protein families. The basis of the system is a MySQL database and a package of Java classes to store and access the information. Sequences are analyzed through iterative use of hidden Markov models, cluster and phylogenetic analysis.
Qualifications: We are seeking a highly motivated and creative postdoctoral fellow. The candidate may hold a PhD in life sciences, computer science, mathematics, or bioinformatics. The ideal candidate has a strong background in computational biology/bioinformatics or applied mathematics. Candidates with a multidisciplinary background, spanning both life sciences and computer sciences are especially encouraged to apply. Excellent programming skills (preferable in Java) are essential. Experience in distributed computing would be beneficial. Applicants should have excellent communication skills as she/he is working at the interface between biochemistry and bioinformatics. An interest in supervision of Master or PhD students is desirable.
Start: as soon as possible
Duration: 1 year. The contract can be renewed 2 x 2 years. Maximum 5 years.
Employment fraction: 100 %
Place of employment: University of Lausanne, Department of Fundamental Neurosciences, Rue du Bugnon 9, 1005 Lausanne, Switzerland (http://www.unil.ch/dnf/en/home.html)
Application: Applications and informal queries about the lab and research projects should be directed by email (Dirk.Fasshauer at unil.ch). Applications should include a CV, ta short statement of her/his research interests and experience, the university grade reports and contact information for two reference persons.
Applications deadline: 31.08.2015
