Open Postdoctoral position, faculty mentor Tino Pleiner

The Pleiner lab at Stanford University is looking for postdoctoral fellows to study the mechanism of membrane protein biogenesis and quality control at the human endoplasmic reticulum using a combination of cutting-edge functional genomics, cell biology, structural biochemistry and protein engineering techniques. In parallel, we are also looking for postdocs interested in developing high-throughput screens for single-domain antibodies, called nanobodies, that perturb intracellular biology directly at the protein level and to use these tools to study and reverse failure of protein homeostasis under disease conditions.

The following projects require your expertise:

1) Dissecting the mechanism of ion channel biogenesis and quality control at the human endoplasmic reticulum using a combination of cutting-edge functional genomics, cell biology, structural biochemistry and protein engineering techniques. Neuronal and cardiac ion channels are key mediators of action potentials and so enable heart muscle contraction and neuronal signal propagation. Mutations that reduce ion channel levels at the cell surface or impair their function lead to severe neurological and cardiological diseases that collectively affect millions of people worldwide. We are interested in how cells manufacture various ion channels in the right quality and in the right relative amounts to achieve proper electrical activity of cell membranes. We will explore the molecular machinery and mechanisms that regulate ion channel insertion, assembly and quality control at the human endoplasmic reticulum using a combination of cell biology, genetics and structural biology. 

2) Developing high-throughput screens for alpaca-derived single-domain antibodies, called nanobodies, as tools to study and reverse failure of protein homeostasis under disease conditions. We will generate nanobodies that activate intracellular protein folding and degradation capacity to cope with misfolded and aggregated proteins and characterize them in model systems of neurodegenerative diseases. Our goal is to develop nanobodies into mRNA-deliverable effectors of protein homeostasis.

We are seeking creative, passionate and independent thinkers to join us as postdocs. We are offering projects at the intersection of basic research and technology development (see below). Applications are encouraged from talented and motivated individuals who have a Ph.D. or are nearing completion of their Ph.D. with experience in cell biology, structural biochemistry or protein engineering. Top candidates will have a strong track record of research productivity, excellent communication skills, enthusiasm for basic research or technology development and a willingness to work as a leading part of a team with other lab members. Our lab is an inclusive space that fosters learning & curiosity, promotes team work and values mentorship to drive an innovative research program that pushes the boundaries of molecular biology.

The successful candidate will have access to close mentorship, fantastic resources and will be surrounded by a world-class collaborative scientific environment. Outside of the lab, life in the sunny Bay area offers spectacular culinary, cultural, and outdoor recreational opportunities.