We are currently looking for a motivated PhD student or postdoc to work on protein self-assembly and aggregation in electric fields. Some details can be found below. We would be very grateful if you could forward this information to anyone who might be interested in the position.

Details:
The aim of the project is to explore the phase behavior of proteins under the influence of external electric fields: In how far can electric fields be used to direct protein self-assembly into condensed liquid droplets, crystals and aggregates? Depending on the field strength and frequency, several mechanisms are conceivable: field-induced stresses can alter the shape and internal structure of protein molecules, the electric double layer can be deformed giving rise to changes in the electrostatic interactions, and electric torques can align proteins. The effects of the solution conditions (protein concentration, pH, ionic strength) and electric field parameters (strength and frequency) on the proteins, their state diagram and phase transition kinetics will be systematically investigated by the combined use of circular dichroism spectroscopy, optical microscopy, light and X-ray scattering.

The PhD candidate or postdoc will work at the Research Center Juelich within a common project with the Heinrich Heine University Duesseldorf. We are looking for a highly motivated experimental researcher with a solid background in physics, chemistry, or a related field, preferably with knowledge in soft matter and/or biophysics. Experience with experimental research, especially using microscopy and scattering techniques, as well as excellent communication skills and computer skills will be highly beneficial.

Interested candidates are welcome to contact us and encouraged to send their applications (including a detailed CV and lists of grades) electronically as a single PDF. Applications received by 25 January 2022 will be given full consideration.

Dr. K. Kang (FZ Juelich, k.kang@fz-juelich.de, https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=cXhAPQ4AAAAJ)
Dr. F. Platten (HHU Duesseldorf, Florian.Platten@hhu.de, https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=W7GL23UAAAAJ)