Please sign in first
Not a member?
Structural Biology and Biochemistry
The Melcher Laboratory studies the structure and function of proteins that have central roles in cellular signaling. The lab employs X-ray crystallography and cryo-EM in combination with biochemical and cellular methods to identify structural mechanisms of signaling.
LAB NEWS
In the Press
20 Sept 2018 A Ray of Molecular Beauty from Cryo-EM
NIH Director’s Blog
15 March 2017 Van Andel Institute Happenings
WGVU
23 July 2015 Scientists use world’s most powerful X-ray laser in groundbreaking study of cells.
MLive
25 Jan. 2012 How West Michigan researchers’ discovery could lead to new ways to treat disease, protect crops.
MLive
19 Oct. 2010 Van Andel Institute researchers discover spray that could be alternative to genetically engineered food.
MLive
10 Jan. 2010 Van Andel Institute plant research named among Science Magazine’s Top 10 Breakthroughs of 2009.
MLive
3 Dec. 2009 Super plants? Van Andel Research Institute discovery could produce crops resistant to cold, drought, other damage.
MLive
Featured Publications
Xu T-H, Liu M, Zhou XE, Liang G, Zhao G, Xu HE, Melcher K, Jones PA. 2020. Structure of DNA methyltransferases DNMT3A/DNMT3B bound to a nucleosome. Nature. 586:151-155.
Zhao LH* et al.. 2019. Structure and dynamics of the active human parathyroid hormone receptor-1. Science.
Zhou XE et al. 2017. Identification of phosphorylation codes for arrestin recruitment by G protein-coupled receptors. Cell.
*Cover of Cell
Zhang F et al. Structural basis of JAZ-mediated repression of MYC transcription factors in jasmonate signaling. Nature.
Li X et al. Structural basis of AMPK regulation by adenine nucleotides and glycogen. Cell Res.
Chen C et al. Structural basis for molecular recognition of folic acid by folate receptors. Nature.
DeBruine ZJ et al. Wnt5a promotes Frizzled-4 signalosome assembly by stabilizing cysteine-rich domain dimerization. Genes Dev.
Soon F-F et al. Molecular mimicry regulates ABA signaling by SnRK2 kinases and PP2C phosphatases. Science.
Melcher K et al. A gate-latch-lock mechanism for hormone signaling by abscisic acid receptors. Nature.
Join the Team
A fully funded postdoctoral or research scientist position is available immediately in the Melcher Laboratory. We are seeking a highly motivated individual interested in applying cutting-edge structural biology and protein biochemistry techniques to study signaling mechanisms. VAI has state-of-the-art crystallization and cryo-electron microscopy facilities. This position will provide excellent training and career advancement opportunities. Read more and apply here.