The Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics at Washington University School of Medicine (WashU Medicine) is inviting applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position in the Ghanbarpour Laboratory. This position offers an exceptional opportunity for early-career scientists to delve into structural biology, membrane biology, and molecular biophysics supported by NIH grant R35GM160328, the Longer Life Foundation, and university startup funding.
Position Overview
| Designation | Postdoctoral Research Associate |
|---|---|
| Research Group | Ghanbarpour Laboratory |
| Department | Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics |
| Institution | Washington University School of Medicine (WashU) |
| Location | St. Louis, MO 63110, USA |
| Research Area | Biochemistry, Structural Biology (Cryo-EM/ET), Protein Engineering, Membrane Biology |
| Salary Range | Base pay is commensurate with experience (WashU Postdoctoral scale) |
| Last Date to Apply | Open Until Filled (Review of applications is ongoing) |
Research Area & Lab Focus
The Ghanbarpour Laboratory investigates how bacteria and human mitochondria maintain homeostasis and respond to environmental challenges and stress. Key research themes include:
- AAA+ Proteolytic Machines: Elucidating the molecular architecture and mechanisms of ATP-dependent soluble and membrane-spanning AAA+ proteases and accessory complexes.
- Structural Biology: Applying single-particle cryo-EM and cryo-electron tomography (cryo-ET) alongside mass spectrometry to visualize dynamic macromolecular assemblies.
- Bacterial Immune Defense: Exploring anti-phage defense mechanisms, the rewiring of proteolytic systems, and innate immune strategies during bacteriophage infection.
- Protein Engineering: Designing novel molecular tools derived from microbial proteolytic machinery.
Postdoctoral researchers in the lab are actively encouraged to dedicate up to 20% of their research time to an independent project, enabling the preparation of competitive faculty-level research proposals.
Eligibility & Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
- Ph.D., M.D., or an equivalent terminal/doctoral degree in Biochemistry, Biophysics, Structural Biology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, or a related discipline.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Hands-on experience in single-particle cryo-EM or cryo-ET (sample preparation, data acquisition, and heterogeneity analysis) is highly desirable.
- Technical proficiency in recombinant protein expression/purification, biochemical assays, genetic microbiology, or protein engineering.
- Demonstrated ability in scientific writing, results reporting, and data interpretation.
- Strong collaborative attitude and willingness to mentor graduate and undergraduate trainees.
Job Description & Responsibilities
Working under the supervision of the faculty mentor, the Postdoctoral Researcher will:
- Design, optimize, and conduct structural biology, biochemical, and cellular experiments.
- Perform cryo-EM sample preparation, high-resolution data collection, and computational structural determination.
- Analyze and evaluate experimental findings and present data at national/international conferences.
- Write manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed scientific journals and assist with grant proposals and progress reports.
- Maintain high ethical standards, comprehensive laboratory records, and compliance with institutional safety guidelines.
- Engage collegially with research team members and university research cores.
Appointment Term & Conditions
At Washington University in St. Louis, postdoctoral appointments operate under a 5-year maximum term limit, which includes prior postdoctoral experience. All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of standard pre-employment screening.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their application online through the Washington University Workday Career Portal. Please prepare your CV, a cover letter detailing your research experience and career goals, and the contact information for 2–3 academic references.
If you require disability accommodations during the application process, please contact CandidateQuestions@wustl.edu or call (314) 935-1149.
Apply Link: Apply for Postdoctoral Research Associate – Biochemistry (Job ID: JR97187)
Last Date for Apply
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and the position will remain open until filled. Early application is strongly encouraged.
