The Hinshaw Lab are seeking highly motivated postdoctoral fellow candidates interested in structure-function studies of dynamin proteins. The Lab are investigating the dynamic properties of dynamin proteins by cryo-EM, biochemical and fluorescent microscopy approaches. Dynamin family members are large GTPases involved in numerous membrane fission and fusion events in the cell. Dynamin is crucial for endocytosis, synaptic membrane recycling, and membrane trafficking within the cell. Mutations in dynamin have been shown to cause the peripheral neuropathies, Charcot- Marie-Tooth disease (CMT), centronuclear myopathy (CNM), and Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia (HSP). Other dynamin family members are involved in processes including division and fusion of mitochondria (Drp1, Mfn, Opa1), and anti-viral activity (Mx, hGBP1). Mutations in Opa1 (Optic Atrophy) are a leading cause of blindness while mutations in Mfns (mitofusins) lead to CMT and hereditary motor and sensory neuropathy (HMSM). We are currently exploring the structure and function of dynamin, mitofusins, Opa1 and a novel dynamin family member called neurolastin, and relating specific mutations to a disease state.
The laboratory has excellent resources for cryo-electron microscopy, cryo-electron tomography, and fluorescent microscopy. Our group has access to two Titan Krios-GIF/K3, Glacios-K3, TF20-K2, and two T12 microscopes. For cryoET, we have access to an Aquilos cryoFIB milling and Leica CLEM microscopes.
With its diverse laboratories and expertise available on the Bethesda main campus, and excellent research and clinical seminars, NIH provides a superb and stimulating scientific environment that greatly enhances the postdoctoral training experience.
The ideal candidate will have expertise in protein biochemistry (protein expression and purification) and/or cryo-EM methods including image processing.
Applicants should send a cover letter, briefly describing previous research experience and future goals, a CV and contact information for three professional references to jennyh@niddk.nih.gov.