Research Scientist - Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign•Urbana, IL

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology is seeking a Research Scientist to set up and perform molecular dynamics simulations of membrane transporters and other membrane associated systems in collaboration with experimental labs. The role also involves conducting docking studies of small molecules to identify potential inhibitors for proteins, administering local computer systems and networks, and coordinating training and outreach activities for the NIH Resource for Macromolecular Modeling and Visualization.

Requirements

PhD in physics, biophysics, chemistry or a related molecular field.
Experience with molecular systems using computational techniques.
Experience with molecular simulation.
Experience with docking.
Experience with ligand-protein studies.
Experience with drug design.
Experience with analysis scripting.
Experience working on membrane transporters.
Knowledge of shell, Tcl and Python scripting.
Knowledge of supercomputing.
Ability to work on local computer systems and networks.

Nice To Haves

Experience performing molecular dynamics simulations with NAMD.
Extensive work with VMD.

Responsibilities

Set up and perform molecular dynamics simulations of membrane transporters and other membrane associated systems alongside collaborating experimental labs.
Simulate and analyze membrane proteins involved in the transport of neurotransmitters in the brain.
Perform docking studies of small molecules in search of effective inhibitors for the protein that can be tested experimentally.
Assist the group systems administration team in handling computers with a variety of architectures and operating systems.
Install new machines in the physical space and add them to queues.
Upgrade software and debug computer issues.
Coordinate training and outreach activities, including Beckman Open House, hands-on sessions in annual workshops, and providing 3D demos to visitors.
Prepare manuscripts for submission to scientific journals using simulation results.