Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Assistant to work in the group of Professor Andrew Turberfield on templating peptide assembly with DNA nanostructures.

The post is fixed-term for 3 years starting as soon as possible after 15/09/14, as part of ERASynBio grant “BioMolecular Origami”. This international collaboration includes the labs of Profs R Jerala (National Institute of Chemistry, Slovenia), D Woolfson (U Bristol), D Baker (University of Washington), S Kosuri (UCLA), T Pisanski (U Lubljana), and H Dietz (TU Munich).

The aim of this project is to explore new strategies for synthesis of biomimetic nanostructures by using self-assembled DNA scaffolds to control the assembly of designed polypeptide nanostructures, thereby combining the functionalities of peptides and proteins with the architectural control of DNA nanotechnology. The candidate will work on the design, construction and characterization of DNA templates and DNA-peptide conjugates and their use to create functional devices. Visits to the overseas groups may be necessary.

Applicants should possess, or be very close to obtaining, a PhD in a relevant scientific discipline and ideally a strong background in DNA nanostructures and/or peptide or protein assembly. Previous experience in peptide synthesis, bioconjugation, or biophysical imaging and characterisation techniques will be an advantage. Candidates are expected to demonstrate an understanding of the potential challenges and advantages of composite peptide – nucleic acid nanostructures.

The postholder will have the opportunity to teach.

Please direct enquiries about the role to Professor Turberfield (a.turberfield@physics.ox.ac.uk ).

Only applications received before 12.00 midday on 1 August 2014 can be considered. You will be required to upload a brief statement of research interests, CV and details of two referees as part of your online application.