Post-Doctoral Position in Single molecule biophysics of NMDA receptor dynamics during autoimmune disorders

Institute of Biomedical Research August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS)

Barcelona, Spain

A unique opportunity for a candidate interested in the application of optical tools in biomedical research to work on a joint project between the Institute of Biomedical Research August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS) and the Institute of Photonic Sciences (ICFO). This 2 to 3 year project focuses on elucidating the molecular mechanisms involved in an important class of autoimmune disorders, in which antibodies attack synaptic receptors.

The successful candidate will use novel optical tools to resolve the dynamics and sub-cellular localization of synaptic receptors when targeted by autoantibodies that result in several neurologic disorders. For example, in anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis, autoantibodies cause cross-linking and internalization of the receptors. This leads to a decrease in synaptic NMDAR currents and results in a stereotypic clinical picture similar to that obtained with NMDAR antagonists or genetic alteration of the receptor. This project will use real-time, live-cell imaging, single-particle tracking, super-resolution imaging, and other optical and biophysical techniques that visualize antibody-receptor interactions.

The mission of IDIBAPS is to encourage translational research, innovation, and technological progress in the field of biomedicine. ICFO is devoted to the research and education of the optical and photonic sciences.

Co-Advisors:

Josep Dalmau, MD, PhD
Center of Neuroimmunology and Paraneoplastic Disorders
Institute of Biomedical Research August Pi i Sunyer, IDIBAPS
Barcelona, Spain
jdalmau@clinic.ub.es

Melike Lakadamyali, PhD
Group Leader Advanced Fluorescence Imaging and Biophysics Group
Institute of Photonic Sciences, ICFO
Barcelona, Spain
Melike.Lakadamyali@icfo.es

Eligibility
Candidates with a biomedical background in immunology or neuroscience are encouraged to apply. Candidates must have experience with confocal microscopy. Additional training in engineering, physics or other microscopic techniques will be of added value. Excellent oral and written communication skills in English are required.

Application
Please send CV and letters of reference to marodes@clinic.ub.es
A statement of career goals would be of assistance.

Posted over 1 year ago by manuela.furkert@icfo.es

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