We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to join our dynamic research team as part of a recently funded ERC Starting Grant project, PicAAA, awarded to Dr Daniel Hurdiss. This project is focused on deciphering the role of virally encoded AAA+ ATPases in the replication cycles of Enteroviruses and Noroviruses. The successful candidate will utilise cutting-edge techniques, including single-particle cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) and in situ tomography, to investigate the structure, function, and inhibition of these important viral pathogens.

Your job
Despite their relatively simple makeup, small RNA viruses can completely rewire our cells during infection, transforming them into viral replication factories. Within these replication sites, viral proteins and hijacked cellular proteins form replication complexes that serve as platforms for the assembly of new virus particles. However, a detailed understanding of what these replication complexes look like is lacking, in part due to the difficulty of purifying these complexes. An alternative possibility is to study these complexes inside the infected cell, but the small size of these complexes makes this a challenging prospect.

You will study critical components of the viral replication machinery, with a particular focus on Noroviruses. This ERC project will allow us to journey inside infected cells, and catch a glimpse at how viruses are built. Together with the other team members, you will develop ways to assemble components of the replication machinery, and also develop new methods to locate these virus assembly sites within the context of infected cells. Finally, you will play a role in the development of molecules that interfere with components of the Norovirus replication machinery.

Your key responsibilities include:

• conducting cryo-EM experiments to visualise the structure of viral AAA+ ATPases at high resolution;
• performing in situ tomography to study viral replication processes within infected cells;
• analysing and interpreting data generated from cryo-EM and tomography studies;
• collaborating with a multidisciplinary team of molecular virologists and other scientists to integrate findings into broader research projects;
• publishing research results in peer-reviewed journals and present findings at national and international conferences;
• mentoring Master's students and contributing to the academic community within the institution.

• A PhD in Structural Biology, Virology, Biochemistry, or a related field with an excellent track record;
• a proven record of cryo-EM map/structure depositions and peer-reviewed publications;
• experience with single-particle cryo-EM and/or electron tomography, including hands-on experience in TEM operation (Tecnai T12, Glacios, Talos Arctica, Titan Krios) and data acquisition (EPU/SerialEM);
• strong expertise in various cryo-EM image processing and model building/analysis software (e.g., Relion, CryoSPARC, ChimeraX, ISOLDE, COOT, Phenix);
• prior experience with in situ cryo-ET is a plus, and a strong desire to learn this methodology is essential;
• a background in virology, particularly picornaviruses, is a plus;
• excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently as well as collaboratively;
• a team player capable of managing multiple projects simultaneously;
• strong written and verbal communication skills.

• A one-year contract with the possibility of extension up to three years following satisfactory performance;
• a working week of 32 to 40 hours and a gross monthly salary between €3,378 and €5,331 in the case of full-time employment (salary scale 10 under Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (CAO NU));
• 8% holiday pay and 8.3% year-end bonus;
• a pension scheme, partially paid parental leave and flexible employment conditions based on the collective labor agreement for Dutch Universities.

In addition to the terms of employment laid down in the CAO NU, Utrecht University has a number of schemes and facilities of its own for employees. This includes schemes facilitating professional development, leave schemes and schemes for sports and cultural activities, as well as discounts on software and other IT products. We also offer access to additional employee benefits through our Terms of Employment Options Model. In this way, we encourage our employees to continue to invest in their growth. For more information, please visit Working at Utrecht University.

Universiteit Utrecht

A better future for everyone. This ambition motivates our scientists in executing their leading research and inspiring teaching. At Utrecht University, the various disciplines collaborate intensively towards major strategic themes. Our focus is on Dynamics of Youth, Institutions for Open Societies, Life Sciences and Pathways to Sustainability. Sharing science, shaping tomorrow.

At the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine we train the veterinarians and researchers of the future, provide care for animals and conduct leading and societal relevant research. That is what we are good at. We see that the health and welfare of animals, humans and the environment are interconnected. By sharing our knowledge and working together, we make positive impact, both nationally and internationally. Our 1,500 students and 950 staff members inspire and strengthen each other. Our engagement connects us. The drive to, from an integral perspective, make the world a better place.

Your research will be embedded in Virology group of the Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, which is part of the Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences within the Faculty of Veterinary medicine. You will be supervised and coached in your development by dr. Daniel Hurdiss. You will join our large team of about 40 researchers that focuses on the molecular aspects of infection of corona-, influenza- and picornaviruses. The Virology Section studies the interaction between viruses and their hosts at the molecular/cell biological level as well as at the level of the organism. Ultimately, we strive to translate obtained knowledge into the development of novel vaccines, antiviral therapies, and diagnostic tools.

For more information, please contact Dr Daniel Hurdiss at d.l.hurdiss@uu.nl or Dr Sander Steenbeek by s.c.steenbeek@uu.nl.

Candidates for this vacancy will be recruited by Utrecht University.