Postdoc: Revealing ribosomes using single-molecule and RNA sequencing AMOLF in Netherlands

This postdoctoral position at AMOLF in Amsterdam offers an exciting opportunity to investigate the dynamic action of ribosomes using advanced single-molecule and RNA sequencing techniques. The project is based in the Tans biophysics lab, renowned for its pioneering work on chaperone-guided protein folding and the use of optical tweezers to study molecular mechanisms at nanometer and millisecond resolution.

The research focuses on elucidating how individual ribosomes and polysomes cooperate during protein synthesis, using methodologies such as optical tweezers, single-molecule fluorescence, and selective ribosome profiling—a cutting-edge RNA sequencing method. The aim is to reveal the fundamental mechanisms underlying accurate and erroneous protein production, with a particular emphasis on the real-time visualization of translation activity, protein folding, and chaperone guidance.

As a postdoc, you will join an international and collaborative team, working closely with leading groups at Heidelberg University and ETH Zurich, who specialize in ribosome profiling and cryo-EM. The project offers the chance to develop new experimental schemes, adapt biochemical protocols, analyze complex temporal data, and contribute to high-level scientific publications. The research spans from cellular to atomic levels, integrating in vivo and in vitro approaches, and covers a broad range of biological systems from bacteria to human cells.

AMOLF is part of NWO-I and is located at Amsterdam Science Park, providing a vibrant and supportive environment with about 140 researchers and 80 support staff. The institute is committed to diversity and inclusion, having won the NNV Diversity Award 2022. The Tans group is a close-knit team of around 10 PhD students and postdocs, fostering a highly supportive and social atmosphere.

The position is a full-time appointment (40 hours/week) for four years, with funding available for attending international conferences. AMOLF provides comprehensive support for foreign researchers, including assistance with housing, visa applications, transport costs, and furnishing expenses. The working environment is informal, with short lines of communication and a focus on collaboration and innovation.

Applicants should have a strong background in experimental physics or chemistry, experience or interest in single-molecule techniques, programming skills for data analysis, and excellent English communication skills. Applications must include a resume and a motivation letter explaining your interest in joining the group. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

For more information, visit https://www.sandertanslab.nl and https://amolf.nl/research-groups/biophysics.