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JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS

Job Title: Molecular Dynamics Simulation Specialist

Position Type: Wage Payroll

Location: 8 Althouse Lab, Pennsylvania State University

Position Summary: We are seeking a highly skilled molecular biologist with strong expertise in molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to support computational studies on coronavirus replication machinery. The successful candidate will contribute to ongoing research focused on the polymerase, helicase, and exoribonuclease subcomplexes of coronavirus replication complexes, with the goal of understanding molecular mechanisms and identifying potential antiviral targets.

Responsibilities:

Perform and analyze molecular dynamics simulations of viral protein complexes, including polymerase, helicase, and exoribonuclease assemblies.
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.

Required Qualifications:

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.

Preferred Qualifications:

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.

Appointment Details:

Duration:

15 hours/week for 28 weeks

Application Instructions:

Please submit a CV, a brief cover letter describing relevant experience.

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

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