Research Associate-Fixed Term

Position Summary

The larger mission of the Vermaas laboratory is to study plant processes such as photosynthesis, cell wall biosynthesis, and specialized metabolite transport. These questions are key to solving sustainability challenges. With the ultimate goal of facilitating a robust bioeconomy, the Vermaas lab leverages computational methods such as atomistic or coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations with both classical and machine-learned force fields to study key questions around these topics. By using and developing these molecular simulation tools, the Vermaas lab seeks to create a molecular-level picture of these biological phenomena.

These specific positions are funded by DOE, studying plant natural product transport across lipid bilayers and structural questions in photosynthetic proteins. We anticipate determining the permeability for plant natural products across microbial membranes. We also have specific molecular simulations in mind that require driving a protein involved in photosynthesis along  

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Degree

Doctorate -Biophysics, Plant Biology, Biochemistry, Physics, Computer Science, or a related field

Minimum Requirements

• A publication record commensurate with career stage and field
• An interest in applying physics-based computational approaches to study plant molecular simulation
• Relevant prior research experience. Concretely, we expect candidates to have previously studied plant natural products through simulation, or integrated experimentally determined density maps into molecular simulation systems

Desired Qualifications

Day to day, the expectation is that the researcher will be expected to learn or have prior experience with a programming language such as python, Unix-based operating systems such as MacOS or Linux. These tools are essential to set up, carry out, and analyze molecular simulation trajectories, and to interact with high performance computing environments. Thus, previous experience with these tools is beneficial but not essential:

• Python libraries like Numpy, Scipy, and Matplotlib
• A programmable molecular viewer such as VMD
• Simulation engines such as NAMD or GROMACS
• Basic familiarity with the linux terminal

Required Application Materials

CV required.  

Special Instructions

To best evaluate candidates, please provide a list of three recommenders so that Dr. Vermaas can reach out when you advance to that stage.

Review of Applications Begins On

10/15/2024

Remote Work Statement

MSU strives to provide a flexible work environment and this position has been designated as remote-friendly. Remote-friendly means some or all of the duties can be performed remotely as mutually agreed upon.

Website

https://prl.natsci.msu.edu/

MSU Statement

Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.