Mots-Clés

molecular modelling, protein, protein structure prediction, molecular docking, free energy prediction, molecular dynamics simulations

Description

An engineer position is available in molecular modelling (biocomputing) at Toulouse Biotechnology Institute (TBI) located on the grounds of INSA-Toulouse, France. The laboratory is affiliated to both the CNRS and INRAE and carries out research in catalysis and enzyme engineering, systemic and synthetic biology, fermentation, process engineering and eco design: https://www.toulouse-biotechnology-institute.fr/

Job description

The successful candidate will integrate the Biocatalysis department (Catalysis and Molecular engineering Team), and more specifically research projects within the synthetic biology field.  It will aim more particularly to apply a range of molecular modelling methods to investigate in details enzymes involved in synthesis/degradation of molecules of interest (plastics, chemical precursors, lipids, carbohydrates, …)  in order to get a better understanding of sequence/molecular determinants responsible of substrate and reaction specificity and predict modifications enabling optimization of enzyme performances.

The hired engineer will be in charge of conducting molecular modeling studies to get a better understanding of structural and dynamical features responsible for the activity, specificity or thermostability of targeted enzymes.

She/He will apply a range of molecular modeling and bioinformatics techniques (sequence analysis, protein structure prediction, molecular docking, free energy prediction, molecular dynamics simulations, …) to decipher essential structural and dynamical determinants. This work will be carried out in close collaboration with computational biologists, biochemists and metabolic engineers that will evaluate proposed enzyme designs.

We are looking for a highly motivated scientist who has research expertise/training in a number of areas of computational biology, including protein modelling, molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulations and experience in sequence analysis, computational protein design and enzymes would be a great plus.

A biology background and a sound understanding of protein modelling and protein-ligand interactions are required. Familiarity with Linux is expected.

The candidate will have the opportunity to work in a diverse and rich multidisciplinary environment, surrounded by both computational and experimental experts in the field of enzyme catalysis, design and engineering. Applicants should enjoy teamwork and have very good communication skills. Good English skills are required and notions of French would be a plus. He/She will be based at Toulouse Biotechnology Institute, Toulouse (31), France.

Qualifications

• Master (MSc) degree or equivalent in molecular modelling, structural biology, bioinformatics or related field.
• Essential skills required include protein modelling, biosimulation, and bioinformatics methods and techniques.
• Strong communication and organizational skills, with a clear motivation to working in a team-oriented environment.
• Good English skills are required and notions of French would be a plus.

The position is available starting from February 1st, 2025 and for a duration of up to two years. The appointee will be hired through fixed-term contracts in accordance with the French legislation. A competitive salary will be proposed based on qualifications and experience.

Applicants should send a detailed curriculum vitae, a letter of intent explaining their motivations for the position, and contact details of at least two references. Send you applications to:

Jérémy Esque :                                    esque@insa-toulouse.fr

Nicolas Panel:                                      panel@insa-toulouse.fr

Isabelle André :                                   isabelle.andre@insa-toulouse.fr