Postdoctoral Research Associate - Kinetic Structural Study of Photosynthetic Membranes

Requisition Id 14091 

Overview:

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to perform cutting-edge research in the study of photosynthetic membrane structure in vivo using neutron scattering.

 

Oak Ridge National Laboratory is the largest US Department of Energy science and energy laboratory, conducting basic and applied research to deliver transformative solutions to compelling problems in energy and security.  The Spallation Neutron Source (SNS) and the High-Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR) are world-leading facilities and the scientific center of a diverse, international, and inclusive neutron scattering communi (https://neutrons.ornl.gov).

 

The position resides in the SANS and Spin Echo Group, part of the Large Scale Structures Section of the Neutron Scattering Division at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).

 

In this position you will: (1) Perform time resolved small-angle neutron scattering experiments to study the structure of plant thylakoid membranes in vivo. (2) Contribute to the development of a sample environment for the in-situ illumination of photosynthetic systems. (3) Refine and/or develop methods and models for analyzing data from these challenging systems (4) Combine the obtained information with information obtained from complementary techniques to understand how the structures observed relate to physiological processes in photosynthetic organisms. 

 

This work will be conducted in collaboration with other scientists within the Neutron Scattering Division, and provides opportunities to work with collaborators in the stimulating multidisciplinary environment of ORNL. The prospective candidate will also have the opportunity to develop their own science related to the structural study of complex membrane systems.

 

Successful candidates will be selected via a panel interview process.  If this position interests you and you meet the basic qualifications, please apply.

 

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

• Conduct high quality kinetic structural research on photosynthetic organisms.
• Contribute to the design, construction, and commissioning of the sample environment dedicated to the neutron scattering study of photosynthetic systems.
• Reduce, analyze, and interpret the data obtained, with special attention to the underlying scattering model.
• Perform small angle neutron and X-ray scattering from biological materials.
• Publish scientific results in peer-reviewed journals in a timely manner.
• Present results from this research at national and international meetings.
• Champion neutron scattering within the ORNL community and among national and international peers.
• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health, and quality program requirements.
• Deliver ORNL’s mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility by fostering a respectful workplace – in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success

 

Basic Qualifications:

• PhD in biophysics, physics, materials science, structural biology, chemistry, or a related field.

 

Preferred Qualifications:

• A strong background in biological membrane characterization with an emphasis on scattering techniques.
• Experience with neutron or X-ray scattering techniques, preferably small-angle scattering.
• A strong background in the interpretation of small-angle scattering data and formulation of membrane models.
• Experience with preparation and handling of biological samples for scattering experiments.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• A strong record of research demonstrated by pub