Department of Biology

Currently Seeking


Postdoctoral Position

Systems Biology of G Protein Signaling

The University of North Carolina, Schools of Medicine and Arts and Sciences


Heterotrimeric G proteins serve as a signaling nexus in a myriad of normal and diseased cell states. Many extracellular signals (e.g. hormones, peptides, cytokines, lights) are perceived by 7-transmembrane receptors, often referred to as G protein coupled receptors  (“GPCR” in figure at left), that stimulate the activation state of the cytoplasmic  G protein complex. Interestingly, the majority of non-animal cells (protists, fungi, plants, amoeba and many others) bind GTP without the need for a GPCR. This recent discovery opens up new opportunities to find novel mechanisms that regulate G protein signaling.  This project tightly integrates experimental investigations with mathematical modeling to discover and characterize novel signaling motifs that regulate pathway activity in the glucose sensing system of Arabidopsis. The project is a continuation of a well established collaboration between the labs of Drs. Alan Jones and Tim Elston  (Fu, et al 2014 Cell 156:1084-1095). The ideal applicant will have experience with deterministic and stochastic modeling methods, and a willingness to learn the experimental techniques needed to test their mathematical models.  Interested individuals should follow the “POSTDOCTORAL POSITION” link above or contact Tim Elston and Alan Jones.



Postdoctoral Position

Trafficking of G Protein Signaling Elements

The University of North Carolina, Schools of Medicine and Arts and Sciences


 Seeking a highly-motivated individuals to study in vivo spatial and temporal changes in signaling elements of the heterotrimeric G-protein pathway in Arabidopsis.   Arabidopsis has become the most tractable model system for study of the G-protein signal pathway in a multicellular eukaryote.  The candidate will have available a large set of genetic and microscopy tools to address a novel signaling mechanism within a classic signaling paradigm.  The candidate must have experience in fluorescence microscopies, including FRET analysis. Knowledge of or experience with Arabidopsis is not necessary but useful.  Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal skills are essential. The candidate must be fluent in English.  Salaries start at $37,000/yr plus benefits commensurate with experience.  Interested individuals should follow the “POSTDOCTORAL POSITION” link above or contact Dr. Alan Jones.  The University of North Carolina is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer

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