The lab is hiring Postdoctoral Fellows and has openings for Graduate Research Fellows.

We investigate mechanisms of gating, regulation and disease in voltage-activated potassium channels, with a focus on hERG potassium channels. We use biophysical knowledge of channel function to inform our studies of inherited mutations in hERG potassium channels, which cause sudden death cardiac arrhythmias. We also study the interactions of small molecules with hERG channels, as off-site inhibition of hERG channels by drugs is a major clinical problem.  Fellows will have the opportunity to work on projects in several related areas.  On-going projects involve combining fluorescence spectroscopy, electrophysiology and non-canonical amino acid (ncAA) technology to introduce amino acids with novel sidechain ‘handles’ into hERG. We are focused on ncAAs that are fluorescent or photo-reactive.  Using ncAA probes is anticipated to yield new insights into the molecular motions and protein dynamics that underlie gating of hERG.  Other projects investigate the molecular and physiological interactions and regulation of hERG channel isoforms (hERG1a and hERG1b) that together form the native hERG current in the heart.  Projects also focus on using CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing to study hERG currents in myocytes.

The projects are supported by two R01 grants from NIH/NIGMS to Dr. Trudeau. Interested postdoctoral candidates should submit a cover letter and CV along with the names of three references below. Graduate research fellows or medical students at the SOM are encouraged to contact Dr. Trudeau directly by email.  Individuals from underrepresented groups in the sciences are especially encouraged to apply.