Research Fellow (Level A)
Company: RMIT University
Location: Melbourne
Time Type: Full time
Posted On: Posted 2 Days Ago
Time Left to Apply: End Date: November 11, 2024 (28 days left to apply)
Job Requisition ID: JR30660
Overview:
Position: Research Fellow (level A) — Potassium Ion Channel Simulations
Type: Full-time, Fixed Term position for 12 months initially, with extension subject to performance.
Salary: Academic Level A6 – A8 + 17% Superannuation and Flexible Working Arrangements
Based at: the Melbourne CBD campus
Position Summary:
An exciting opportunity is available for an outstanding postdoctoral researcher or PhD graduate to investigate the molecular mechanisms of potassium ion channel function and modulation. The aim of this postdoctoral research project is to describe potassium channel conduction, inactivation and modulation mechanisms by employing advanced molecular dynamics methods and analysis. The systems being studied include BK (Big-conductance K), MthK and KcsA potassium channels. The expected outcome is an improved description of fundamental mechanisms of ion channel function and how these proteins respond to physiological and/or pharmacological stimuli to control electrical signalling in the body. The computational project, in collaboration with leading experimental researchers in cryo EM and electrophysiology, is funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council. The work is expected to be high impact, with related projects recently published in Nature and other top journals, and will provide excellent career possibilities for a talented and driven researcher.
To be considered for this position, the applicant must:
- Hold (or be about to complete) a PhD in physics, physical chemistry or a closely related discipline; provided the applicant has a relevant research background.
- Have a research background in computation in biophysics, condensed matter physics or physical chemistry.
- Have experience in atomistic simulations of membrane protein systems. A strong preference will be given to applicants with experience in simulations of ion channels.
- Have experience in statistical mechanical theory and molecular dynamics simulations for biophysical problems using existing packages. Preference will be given to those with experience in NAMD/VMD and CHARMM.
- Have a background in using enhanced sampling and free energy methods, such as Umbrella Sampling and Free Energy Perturbation, with expertise in replica methods, such as Replica Exchange with Solute Tempering and Metadynamics, being desirable.
- Possess strong skills in supercomputing using both CPUs and GPUs, programming/scripting in a Unix environment, MD scripting for advanced simulations and analysis, as well as good molecular visualisation skills.
- Demonstrated ability to work well with experimental collaborators to achieve high impact publications.
- Demonstrated experience in paper writing. Ability to independently form high quality paper drafts is essential.
- Demonstrated experience in conference presentation of research findings.
- Demonstrated high level written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work autonomously whilst displaying a strong commitment to work in a team environment, including the demonstrated ability to confidently and effectively work with colleagues.
- Demonstrated ability to meet deadlines and effectively manage varying workloads and respond to changing priorities as required.
Please Note: Appointment to this position is subject to passing a Working with Children and National Police Check.
About the College:
The STEM College holds a leading position and expertise in the science, technology, engineering, mathematics and health (STEM) fields. We are uniquely positioned to influence and partner with industry, as never before.
STEM College is a community of exceptional STEM researchers, teachers, inventors, designers and game-changers, supported by talented professional staff. We offer higher education programs across all STEM disciplines at the Bachelor, Master and PhD levels, and ensure our students experience an education that is work-aligned and life-changing.
The College is renowned for its exemplary research in many STEM areas including advanced manufacturing and design; computing technologies; health innovation and translational medicine; nano materials and devices; and sustainable systems. Our brilliant researchers attract funding from government and industry sources.
Industry is at the heart of what we do. It ensures our research has real world impact, and our students are truly work-ready. Under the leadership of DVC STEM College & Vice President, Digital Innovation, we have established new hubs of industry-connected digital innovation and endeavour and are engaging with global STEM organisations at scale.
Our diversity and shared values empower our work, and we are proud of the College’s inclusive, caring culture. We offer a safe, dynamic work environment, and support every member of our community to achieve their potential. The College appointed Victoria’s first ever Dean of STEM, Diversity & Inclusion in 2020, and this role drives gender equity, diversity and inclusion strategies across the College.
STEM College employs 1,000 staff who deliver onshore and offshore programs to approximately 20,000 students.
We are here to positively impact the world and create the next generation of STEM leaders.
To Apply:
Please submit your CV and covering letter addressing your suitability for this position by clicking on the ‘Apply’ link at the top of this page.
For further information about this position, please see the Position Description hyperlinked below or contact Prof. Toby Allen via email toby.allen@rmit.edu.au
Position Description: Research Fellow (level A)
Please note, if you are viewing this advert from an external site, please click ‘apply’ and you will be redirected to RMIT's Jobs website to access the Position Description at the bottom of the page.
Applications Close:
10 Nov 2024 11.59 pm
RMIT is an equal opportunity employer committed to being a child safe organisation. We are dedicated to attracting, retaining and developing our people regardless of gender identity, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability and age. Applications are encouraged from all sectors of the community and we strongly encourage applications from the Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander community.
At RMIT, we are committed to supporting adjustments throughout the recruitment and selection process, as well as during employment. We actively support and encourage people with disability to apply to RMIT (including alternate formats of application forms). To discuss adjustment requirements, please contact Dani, via talentsupport@rmit.edu.au.
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