Single molecule studies of RNA-protein interactions

Our laboratory has experience in single molecule studies of DNA, RNA and of RNA-protein interactions [1-3]. We are looking for a post-doctoral researcher who is interested in using high-precision optical tweezers and single molecule FRET to study the activity of DEAD-box proteins. The successful candidate should have a background in experimental physics, biophysics or molecular biology and a strong motivation for single-molecule experiments. In addition to performing original research, the post-doctoral researcher will have the opportunity to guide graduate students and to participate in scientific presentations. Proficiency in oral and written English would be appreciated. French language skills would be useful but are not required.

The DEAD-box family of helicases represent atypical ATP-dependent molecular motors. Unlike some DNA helicases, DEAD-box proteins have limited capacities to unwind duplex RNAs and they are generally considered nonprocessive. These proteins are ubiquitous in nearly all organisms and they are associated with virtually all processes involving RNA.

The Ecole Supérieure de Physique et de Chimie Industrielles (ESPCI) is an internationally renowned research institution located in the centre of Paris in the Latin Quarter. We belong to one of the primary sites for biophysical studies in Europe. The present project associates two well-known laboratories: the Nanobiophysics Laboratory of ESPCI, headed by Ulrich Bockelmann, which focuses on single molecule biophysics and electronic detection of DNA; and the CNRS unit UPR9073 of Institut de Biologie Physico-Chimique (IBPC), headed by Marc Dreyfus, which is a principal French laboratory of fundamental microbiology.

We have funds available for a 24 month contract. Please send your curriculum vitae, a letter of motivation and contact information for two references to ulrich.bockelmann (at) espci.fr.

[1] Single molecule manipulation of nucleic acids. U. Bockelmann Curr. Opin. Struct. Biol. 14, 368 (2004)

[2] Quantifying how DNA stretches, melts and changes twist under tension. P. Gross, N. Laurens, L. B. Oddershede, U. Bockelmann, E. J. G. Peterman and G. J. L. Wuite Nature Physics 7, 731 (2011)

[3] Probing ribosomal protein–RNA interactions with an external force. P. Mangeol, T. Bizebard, C. Chiaruttini, M. Dreyfus, M. Springer and U. Bockelmann Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. Published online before print October 24, 2011, doi: 10.1073/pnas.1107121108).