Postdoctoral Research Scholar, Synthetic Chemistry

The Arizona State University's Biodesign Center for BioEnergetics and Drs. Shengxi Chen and Sidney Hecht invite applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to assist with chemical aspects of the biosynthesis of peptides and proteins containing non-proteinogenic amino acids. Specific tasks will include the design and synthesis of new amino acid analogues, the preparation of oligonucleotide derivatives of these amino acid analogues, and the purification and characterization of the peptides and proteins created in in vitro, and in vivo biochemical systems. The goal of the work includes innovations in the preparation of amino acids and activation of aminoacyl-tRNAs, and participation in understanding the effects of the new prepared amino acids in altering peptide and protein function.

Qualifications:

Applicants must have a recent Ph.D (within the past four years) with a strong background in organic chemistry or a closely related field, and preferably have experience working with amino acids and nucleotides, or in heterocyclic chemistry.

Please apply using the interfolio link (simple email applications cannot be considered) and include the following materials:  1) a cover letter specifying relevant qualifications and training, 2) curriculum vitae, 3) statement of current research interests and expertise (2-page maximum), 4) contact information for at least three professional references, and 5) at least one peer-reviewed publication.   Initial review of applications will begin on August 16, 2021. A background check is required for employment.  The salary range is $52,704 - $55,000, based on the candidate’s experience and ASU salary scales.

Arizona State University is a new model for American higher education, an unprecedented combination of academic excellence, entrepreneurial energy and broad access.  This New American University is a single, unified institution comprising four differentiated campuses positively impacting the economic, social, cultural and environmental health of the communities it serves.  Its research is inspired by real world application blurring the boundaries that traditionally separate academic disciplines.  ASU serves more than 80,000 students in metropolitan Phoenix, Arizona, the nation's fifth largest city.  ASU champions intellectual and cultural diversity, and it welcomes students from all fifty states and more than one hundred nations across the globe.

The Biodesign Institute addresses today's critical global challenges in healthcare, sustainability, and security by developing solutions inspired from natural systems and translating those solutions into commercially viable products and clinical practices.

The Center for BioEnergetics, directed by Dr. Sidney Hecht, focuses on improved diagnoses and treatments for diseases caused by impaired energy metabolism. The majority of these diseases are degenerative and affect children and young adults. In addition to impacting children, impairment to the mitochondria has been implicated as a factor in aging. It is associated with Parkinson's disease, atherosclerotic heart disease, stroke, Alzheimer's disease and cancer.

Additionally, the Center is currently involved in a program involving the synthesis of proteins and peptides containing unnatural amino acid analogues. This program involves the use of modified bacterial ribosomes that we select, which are capable of introducing very unusual amino acid analogues into proteins, including D-amino acids, dipeptides and dipeptidomimetics, beta-amino acids, glycosylated amino acids and phosphorylated amino acids.

Arizona State University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other basis protected by law.

To apply for this position please send your application via the https://apply.interfolio.com/86597. Email applications cannot be considered. If you have any questions, please contact Dr. Shengxi Chen at shengxi.chen.1@asu.edu.” 返回小木虫查看更多