Postdoctoral researcher in membrane protein structural biology

About the role

We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to join the Prentø group at the Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen. The three‑year position, funded by the Lundbeck Foundation, focuses on the structural and molecular analysis of tight‑junction proteins and viral glycoproteins using native‑like membrane systems.

Key responsibilities

• Express and purify claudin proteins and relevant viral components.
• Select and apply nanobodies to stabilise specific claudin conformations and claudin‑virus complexes.
• Reconstitute proteins into lipid nanodiscs and other membrane mimetics.
• Perform in‑vitro reconstitution and biochemical/biophysical analysis of claudin‑virus interactions.
• Prepare samples for cryo‑electron microscopy and support structural data acquisition.
• Optimise experimental systems to investigate membrane‑embedded viral entry mechanisms.

Required profile

• PhD in a life‑science discipline (e.g., biochemistry, structural biology, virology).
• Strong interest in membrane protein biology and host‑pathogen interactions.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary team.

Required skills

• Protein expression and purification.
• Nanobody engineering.
• Lipid nanodisc reconstitution.
• Cryo‑electron microscopy sample preparation.
• Biochemical and biophysical characterisation techniques.
• Basic virology laboratory methods.

What we offer

• Access to state‑of‑the‑art cryo‑EM facilities and membrane‑protein platforms.
• Collaborative, international research environment.
• Support for developing an independent research profile.