Open Positions in the Lab

Postdoctoral Researcher A postdoctoral position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Timothy S. Baker at the University of California San Diego. Applications will be considered from individuals with a Ph. D degree in the Natural Sciences and those with a demonstrated expertise in electron cryo-microscopy. Candidates who are able to relocate to San Diego relatively quickly will be given the highest consideration. The lab’s research focuses on numerous questions related to deciphering the mechanisms by which viruses assemble and how they recognize, attach, enter cells and deliver their genetic payloads. Electron cryo-microscopy, three-dimensional image reconstruction, and homology modeling are the primary tools used to study purified virus specimens. This position is funded as part of a five–PI, NIH, Program-Project grant for studying various members of the alphavirus genus in the Togaviridae family. Alphaviruses have a single stranded RNA genome, a bilayer envelope, and an icosahedral, glycoprotein outer-capsid that is ~70 nm in diameter. Highly-motivated candidates with significant experience in cryo-TEM and/or cryo-tomography, and preferably with some experience in image reconstruction techniques, are encouraged to apply. The EM facility at UCSD has an FEI Tecnai G2 Polara and an FEI Tecnai G2 Sphera (see http://cryoem.ucsd.edu/facilities.shtm for more details). Most image processing is performed in-house on a three-node Linux cluster housed at the San Diego Supercomputer Center, an organized research unit of UCSD. San Diego is a vibrant, cosmopolitan city, known for its beautiful, year-round climate. The area includes about 70 miles of beaches, and water sports such as surfing, snorkeling, kayaking and fishing are all very popular. Winter alpine skiing and the deserts are within a couple of hours drive. The city is home to both the San Diego Chargers and the San Diego Padres. Qualified applicants are asked to provide a CV that identifies areas of expertise and interest, employment history, a publications list, and they should arrange to have at least three signed letters of reference sent from professional scientists. Send this to Dr. Timothy S. Baker, Professor of Chemistry & Biochemistry, and Molecular Biology, University of California, San Diego , 9500 Gilman Drive MC-0378, La Jolla, California 92093-0378. Alternatively, CVs may be sent to Ms. Tanya Lichtenstein via email . Junior Electron Microscopist An electron microscopist position (Staff Research Associate II level) is available in the laboratory of Dr. Timothy S. Baker in the Departments of Chemistry and Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the University of California San Diego. Dr. Baker’s research utilizes electron cryo-microscopy and three-dimensional image-reconstruction techniques to determine the structures of a wide range of viral pathogens. The research is directed at determining how viruses accomplish tasks such as recognizing and attaching to host cells, how they enter and deliver genetic material into cells, and how a new round of viruses assemble. The Electron Cryomicroscopy facility at UCSD has two, state-of-the-art, transmission electron microscopes – an FEI Tecnai G2 Sphera and an FEI Tecnai G2 Polara equipped with a field emission gun. Both microscopes have film and CCD cameras. The successful candidate will prepare samples, examine them in the electron microscope and collect data. Sample preparation typically requires preliminary analysis by means of negative staining followed by plunge-freeze vitrification. In addition, the individual will assist other researchers, participate in the image reconstruction process, help in the preparation of manuscripts, monitor inexperienced microscope users and assist the Facility Manager as needed. This will include, but is not limited to, maintaining the cleanliness of the lab and darkroom, mixing up photographic chemicals, picking up supplies from campus facilities, processing and scanning electron micrographs, cataloging and archiving images, and monitoring the lab when the Facility Manager is absent. Given the high demand for facility equipment, some evening and weekend work may occasionally be necessary. The successful candidate must have a Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Biochemistry or a closely related life-science field. Prior experience in transmission electron microscopy is desirable but is not required. The individual must be highly self-motivated, be comfortable handling complex tasks and sophisticated equipment, be able to pay meticulous attention to detail, have excellent oral and written English communication skills, be able to follow verbal and written procedures, and be able to interact effectively with faculty, staff, students, and postdoctoral researchers who may have a diverse, ethnic and cultural background. The individual must possess basic computer skills and be willing to learn the Linux operating system and three-dimensional, image-reconstruction software. Qualified applicants are asked to provide a resume that includes information on education, employment history, and the applicant’s goals for the future. They should arrange to have at least three signed letters of reference sent from individuals with a relevant scientific background. Education transcripts may be required. Send this to Dr. Timothy S. Baker, Professor of Chemistry & Biochemistry, and Molecular Biology, 9500 Gilman Drive MC-0378, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093-0378. Alternatively, CVs may be sent to Ms.Tanya Lichtenstein via email .