Pennsylvania State University is seeking a Molecular Dynamics Simulation Specialist to support computational research on coronavirus replication. The successful candidate will apply molecular dynamics simulations to study the polymerase, helicase, and exoribonuclease subcomplexes, aiming to understand molecular mechanisms and identify potential antiviral targets.
What You'll Do
- Perform and analyze molecular dynamics simulations of viral protein complexes.
- Collaborate with experimental and computational researchers to integrate MD data with biochemical and structural findings.
- Prepare detailed reports, visualizations, and summaries of simulation outcomes.
- Contribute to manuscript preparation and presentations.
- Maintain accurate computational records and ensure reproducibility of analyses.
What We're Looking For
- Ph.D. degree in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biophysics, Computational Biology, or a related field.
- Demonstrated experience in molecular dynamics simulations using packages such as GROMACS, AMBER, NAMD, or CHARMM.
- Strong understanding of protein structure, enzyme mechanisms, and biomolecular interactions.
- Experience with Linux/Unix environments, scripting (Python, Bash), and data analysis tools.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills and ability to work in a collaborative research environment.
Nice to Have
- Experience working with viral replication proteins or nucleic acid–processing enzymes. Demonstrated publications.
- Familiarity with high-performance computing (HPC) environments and cluster job management systems.
- Knowledge of homology modeling, docking, or free energy calculations.
Technical Stack
- Simulation: GROMACS, AMBER, NAMD, CHARMM
- Platform: Linux/Unix
- Scripting: Python, Bash
Work Mode
This position is onsite at 8 Althouse Lab, Pennsylvania State University.
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.
