CHARMM is a versatile program for atomic-level simulation of many-particle systems, particularly macromolecules of biological interest. - M. Karplus
Postdoctoral Researchers Potassium Ion Channel Simulations
Date
2025-07-01
Location
RMIT University, Melbourne, Australia
Description
Exciting opportunities are available for two outstanding postdoctoral researchers or PhD graduates to investigate the molecular mechanisms of potassium ion channels. The aim of these postdoctoral research projects is to describe the conduction, inactivation, and modulation mechanisms of different potassium channels by employing advanced molecular dynamics methods. In one project, the systems being studied include BK (Big-conductance K), MthK, and KcsA potassium channels. In the other project, the hERG potassium channel is being studied. The expected outcomes include improved descriptions of fundamental mechanisms of potassium channel function and how these proteins respond to physiological and/or pharmacological stimuli. Both computational projects are in collaboration with leading experimental researchers in cryo-EM and electrophysiology, being funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council, Australia. The work is expected to be high impact, with related projects recently published in Nature and other Nature journals, and will provide excellent career possibilities for a talented and driven researcher.
Research Fellow (Level A) Details
Postdoctoral position funded at RMIT Academic level A6-A8. The initial contract will be for 1 year, with renewal subject to performance. It is expected the postdoc will commence between July and October of 2024.
Minimum Requirements
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 visualization skills.
Other criteria concerning research performance and job skills will be included during the application process.
How to Apply
Please send a brief expression of interest with your CV to Prof. Toby Allen, School of Science, RMIT University. Selection will involve a standard recruitment process by RMIT University following this initial expression of interest stage. A more thorough set of eligibility criteria may be provided by RMIT University at that stage.
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