An NIH sponsored postdoctoral position is available beginning Dec. 1, 2008 or soon thereafter to investigate the function of cathepsin proteases in Toxoplasma gondii, an opportunistic protozoan parasite that can cause severe disease (encephalitis, retinitis, birthdefects)in humans and animals. T. gondii is a tractable parasite that is easily grown in culture, has excellent animal models, and is amenable genetic manipulation. The parasite expresses two cathepsin endoproteases that appear to function together to activate invasion related proteins in a novel multivesicular endosome within the parasite. Cathepsin function will be investigated by a variety of in vitro and in vivo approaches including analysis of recombinant proteins, targeted gene-disruption and gene-tagging, use of small molecule inhibitors, etc.
Candidates must have a Ph.D. and/or M.D., or equivalent degree and a strong background in protein biochemistry and molecular cell biology. Experience with fluorescence microscopy would also be advantageous.
The University of Michigan is currently ranked second among top American public research universities (http://mup.asu.edu/research.html). The university is located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, which is widely considered one of the most livable mid-sized cities in the USA. With its abundance of parks, restaurants, recreational opportunities, and moderate cost of living, residents of Ann Arbor enjoy a high quality of life. Ann Arbor is situated within a 30 min drive of Detroit International Airport, thus providing easy air travel access to destinations in the USA and throughout the world.
Please send by e-mail a cover letter stating interests and career goals, a C.V. including list of publications, and the contact information for three individuals who are willing to provide letters of recommendation.
Vern B. Carruthers, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
Department of Microbiology & Immunology
University of Michigan Medical School
5740A Medical Science Bldg. II, Box 5620
1150 West Medical Center Dr.
Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-5620
Telephone (734) 763-2081
FAX (734) 764-3562
http://www.med.umich.edu/microbio/bio/carruthers.htm
vcarruth@umich.edu
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