Postdoctoral Position in experimental Protein Engineering and biophysics for Green Energy and Sustainable Biocatalysis
The Molecular Bioengineering Group at OIST, is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Scholar to lead the experimental efforts in the characterization of engineered proteins with electron transfer capabilities. Key responsibilities will include designing protein libraries, as well as cloning, expression, purification, and performing electrochemistry assays. Our group explores the intersection of protein evolution, computational biology, and structural biology to develop proteins with real-world applications in sustainable catalysis and renewable energy.
The Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University was established in 2011 to contribute to the development of science and technology worldwide and to serve as a hub of innovation in Okinawa. OIST is a dynamic new graduate university of science and technology in Okinawa Prefecture, Japan which offers a 5-year PhD program and brings together outstanding researchers from across the country and across disciplines to conduct cutting-edge scientific research.
The university is located on 85 hectares of protected forestland overlooking a beautiful shoreline and coral reefs. The campus is striking architecturally, and the facilities are outstanding. To facilitate multidisciplinary research, there are no academic departments. Outstanding resources and equipment are provided and managed to encourage easy access and collaboration.
English is the official language of the University, and the university research community is fully international, with more than 50 countries represented. OIST is rapidly gaining recognition in the worldwide academic community as a model for excellence in education and research, and our unwavering commitment to scientific and technological innovation is dedicated to generating progress that will fuel Okinawa's economic growth.
- Design and optimize protein libraries for mutants with electron transfer capabilities and evaluate their transfer rates.
- Characterize engineered proteins through cloning, expression, purification, and electrochemical assays.
- Conduct bacterial expression of mutants with electron transfer capabilities and evaluate their transfer rates.
- Collaborate with an interdisciplinary team utilizing computational and biophysical approaches to investigate protein structure and function at atomic resolution.
- Actively participate in lab meetings, mentor junior members, and contribute to the lab's intellectual atmosphere.
(Required)
- Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Protein Science, or a related field.
- Extensive wet lab experience, particularly in protein biochemistry (library design, cloning, expression, purification) and bacterial culturing.
- Experience with electrochemical assays is highly desirable.
- Strong enthusiasm for research in protein engineering and renewable energy applications.
- Excellent teamwork and collaboration abilities.
- Proficiency in English for working in an international research setting.
(Preferred)
- Experience with structural biology techniques such as X-ray crystallography or cryo-EM.
In accordance with the OIST Employee Compensation Regulations
For Postdoctoral Scholar:
Expected Annual Salary: 4.5M-5.9M yen
Benefits:
- Relocation, housing and commuting allowances
- Annual paid leave and summer holidays
- Health insurance (Private School Mutual Aid)
- Welfare pension insurance (kousei-nenkin)
- Worker's accident compensation insurance (roudousha-saigai-hoshou-hoken)
- Access to Child Development Center
- Access to Schooling Options
- Language Education
- Resource Center (Daily Life Support in Okinawa)
- Remote Work system
Please submit the following documents in a single PDF (max. 10 MB):
• Cover letter (1 page)
• Curriculum Vitae (2 pages max)
• Research statement (1 page)
• Contact information for two referees.
Applications will be screened continuously until the position is filled.
* Please be sure to indicate where you first saw the job advertisement.
* Prior to the start of employment all new hires are required to successfully complete a background check. Personal information including employment history and academic background should be submitted to OIST after a conditional offer of employment.
How to Apply:
Apply by submitting your application documents to:
saacnicteh.toledopatino[at]oist.jp (Please replace [at] with @ before using this email address)
* OIST Graduate University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action educator and employer and is committed to increasing the diversity of its faculty, students and staff.
* Information provided by applicants or references will be kept confidential, documents will not be returned. All applicants will be notified regarding the status of their applications. OIST Privacy Policy
* Recruiting Organization: Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology School Corporation
* Prevention of Passive Smoking: No smoking indoors
* Please view our policy for rules on external professional activities
(Information Disclosure – 10. Others – 6. OIST Rules for Concurrent Appointment).
* Further details about the University can be viewed on our website
Full-time, fixed-term appointment for 2 years. Contract initially with 6-month probationary period (inclusive). This contract may be renewed by taking into consideration the performance, conduct, and behavior of the Employee and OIST’s financial and other circumstances.
9:00-17:30 (Discretionary)
Holidays:
Saturday, Sunday, National holidays, and Year-end and New Year holidays (Dec. 29 – Jan. 3)
Leave:
Annual Paid Leave, Summer Leave, Sick Leave, and Special Leave
Overtime work hours:
Discretionary Working Hours System：
In the discretionary labor system for specialized work, the employee shall be deemed to have worked 7 hours 30 minutes per day.
*To fully realize our vision of promoting scientific excellence through a diverse and inclusive community, OIST is actively seeking applications from women and underrepresented groups.
We thank all those who apply but only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.