Postdoctoral Researcher in Molecular Biophysics

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Project Description

We are seeking a motivated postdoctoral researcher to work on understanding the molecular mechanisms behind amyloid formation from the protein transthyretin (TTR).

TTR normally functions as a transport protein for thyroxine and retinol-binding protein (RBP) in serum and cerebrospinal fluid. However, the folded protein is unstable and can form amyloid fibrils in tissues such as the heart and nervous system, often leading to fatal consequences. The project focuses on investigating the molecular factors behind this instability (see for example: link (https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-019-08609-z)) and on understanding the pathway between the functional and pathological forms of the protein. Methods include X-ray and neutron crystallography, small-angle scattering (SAXS & SANS), and cryo-EM.

The work includes studies of both wild-type TTR (which is naturally amyloidogenic) and various mutations that are often associated with early onset of amyloidosis in different tissues. Comparative studies with amyloid material from ex vivo sources may also occur.

Workplace Description

The Molecular Biophysics research group is part of the Department of Experimental Medical Science at the Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, and is led by Professor Trevor Forsyth. The group uses biophysical methods to study biomolecular systems in crystals, solutions, and partially ordered systems. The group has a particular focus on X-ray and neutron diffraction, cryo-EM, and a wide range of biophysical techniques. The group is strategically located near MAX IV and ESS in Lund – both world-leading facilities for synchrotron and neutron scattering instrumentation as well as cryo-EM. The group also regularly utilizes ESRF and ILL in Grenoble, France, and DESY in Hamburg, Germany. The project has good access to state-of-the-art research environments in medicine, natural sciences, and engineering. Professor Forsyth also leads the LINXS institute at Science Village (link (https://www.linxs.se/)), enabling interdisciplinary collaboration in life sciences, soft materials, and solid materials.

Responsibilities

You need to be a skilled and independent collaborator with expertise in protein expression, purification, crystallization, and biophysical characterization (purity, yield, stability) for neutron and X-ray scattering/diffraction experiments. You should also have good competence in collecting crystallographic diffraction data, data processing, and solving and refining crystal structures using standard software.

The work may require travel to institutes such as ILL in France, DESY in Hamburg, and other centers as needed by the project. It may also involve participation in national and international workshops and conferences.

Context of the AMBER Project

This position is part of the EU-funded AMBER project (Advanced Multiscale Biological Imaging using European Research Infrastructures), which aims to bridge scientific and sectoral knowledge gaps in biological imaging – from molecular to organism level. The project is coordinated by LINXS in Lund and is funded through the Marie Skłodowska-Curie COFUND program (MSCA).

Approximately 15 postdoctoral researchers are recruited in this fifth call (2026). Each position lasts for 36 months.

For the full description see: link (https://lu.varbi.com/en/what:job/jobID:893315/)

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