Cryo electron microscopy laboratory (PI Dr. Vitold E. Galkin) is seeking motivated postdoc to conduct research on the mechanisms of cardiac muscle contraction. Dr. Galkin has excellent records of publications in the field of structural biology and pioneered single-particle approach to 3D reconstruction of helical filaments while working with Dr. Edward H. Egelman at UVA. PI has access to two state of the art Titan Krios TEMs equipped with Falcon 3c and K3 summit direct detectors, energy filters and phase plates. The nearest facility at UVA is within 2.5h by car. EVMS has TEM on site to conduct preliminary studies on protein complexes. PI has large park of Linux based work stations with 256-512Gb of memory and 36-48 core processors for high speed computing. SPIDER, EMAN2 and RELION software is used for classification and 3D-reconstruction. Position is offered for 3 years and is funded by the NIH R01 grant.

Ph.D. degree in structural biology or muscle regulation field is required. Applicant is expected to have at least one first author publication in international peer reviewed journal along with at least one record of participation in international meetings related to structural biology or muscle regulation. Fast learning curve is expected along with the ability to independently summarize data, relate results to the published observations and write scientific papers aimed for peer reviewed journals. An ample training will be provided and PI will be available to discuss progress on a daily basis during the first year.

Experience in the following arias will be prioritized:

Using Linux OS and writing shell scripts
1. Programming in SPIDER and Python
2. Using UCSF Chimera, Phenix and IMODFIT
3. Using any software related to MD simulations
4. Experience in studying muscle structure or muscle regulation