진학프로석·박사 채용 접수 플랫폼

DeNovoCatalysts, an international collaborative Project (France-USA) funded by A*MIDEX, the Aix-Marseille University Foundation, aims to develop self-assembling and water-soluble artificial mini-proteins with bioinspired heme&Trp redox cofactors for targeted catalysis, and resulting in novel versatile catalysts with enhanced reactivity for medical and/or environmental applications. Such mini-catalysts are inspired on natural metalloproteins in which their reactivity is expanded by the concerted chemistry of transition metals and protein-based radicals [1]. Our bioinspired artificial catalysts are being conceived and characterized as in vitro tunable model systems for understanding better the molecular determinants underlying natural catalytic strategies of drug-target heme enzymes and their bioresistance. Moreover, we will target challenging in vivo applications by developing the heme&Trp artificial catalysts for in-cell reactivity, thus emulating KatGs (His-ligated heme enzymes; pro-drug activation) or cyt P450 oxygenases (Cys-ligated heme enzymes; selective oxidation of inert C-H bonds).

The recruited PDRA will work within the collaborative Research Project DeNovoCatalysts between Dr. Anabella Ivancich (Research Unit UMR 7281, CNRS & Aix Marseille University, Marseille, France), Dr. Stéphane Canaan (Research Unit UMR 7255, CNRS & Aix Marseille University, Marseille, France) and Prof. Vincent L. Pecoraro (Department of Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA).

We are looking for a highly motivated biochemist, with a PhD in Biochemistry, Chemistry or Physics, and a strong background in biochemistry, metalloenzyme catalysis and spectroscopy, excellent communication skills and being eager to work collaboratively in our multidisciplinary research project (Bioinorganic Chemistry, Biophysics, molecular/cell Biology) to undertake a PDRA position of 18 months.