Summary
The Ghanbarpour Laboratory at Washington University in St. Louis is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate to join an interdisciplinary research program. This position offers extensive training in state-of-the-art structural biology, biochemistry, and mass spectrometry techniques, with a focus on understanding bacterial and mitochondrial homeostasis and stress response. Postdocs are encouraged to pursue independent research and develop faculty-level proposals, making this role ideal for those aiming for academic careers.
Designation
Postdoctoral Research Associate
Research Area
The Ghanbarpour Laboratory investigates how bacteria and human mitochondria maintain homeostasis and respond to stress. Key research areas include:
- Molecular mechanisms of ATP-dependent AAA proteolytic machines (soluble and membrane-spanning) in bacterial and mitochondrial systems.
- Assembly, substrate specificity, and role of these complexes in bacterial recovery from antibiotic stress, environmental changes, and pathogen attack.
- Bacterial defense mechanisms against bacteriophage infection, including proteolytic system rewiring and innate immune strategies.
- Protein engineering and development of new molecular tools based on proteolytic systems.
The lab employs cryo-EM, cryo-ET, biochemical and cellular assays, and mass spectrometry.
Location
ST. LOUIS, MO 63110 (Washington University Medical Campus)
Eligibility/Qualification
Required Qualifications
- Education: Ph.D., M.D., or equivalent terminal or doctoral degree.
- Certifications/Professional Licenses: None required.
- Work Experience: No specific work experience required.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in cryo-EM/cryo-ET is highly desirable.
- Additional expertise in biochemistry, genetic microbiology, or protein engineering is a plus.
- Skills: Collaboration, Data Analysis, Data Interpretations, Experimentation, Laboratory Operations, Laboratory Techniques, Researching, Results Reporting, Scientific Writing.
Job Description
Primary Duties & Responsibilities
Under the supervision of a faculty mentor, the Postdoctoral Research Associate will:
- Assist with grant preparation and reporting.
- Prepare and submit papers on research findings.
- Assist in the design of research experiments.
- Evaluate research findings and assist in reporting results.
- Conscientiously discharge research responsibilities.
- Maintain conformity with ethical standards in research.
- Maintain compliance with good laboratory practice, including adequate research records.
- Engage in open and timely discussion with the mentor regarding material, reagents, records, and proposed disclosure of findings.
- Demonstrate collegial conduct towards co-trainees, staff, and research group members.
- Adhere to all applicable University policies, procedures, and regulations.
Working Conditions
This position works in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards. The individual must be physically able to wear protective equipment and provide standard care to research animals.
Salary Range
Base pay is commensurate with experience.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply online through the official Washington University in St. Louis careers portal. For frequently asked questions about the application process, please refer to the External Applicant FAQ. If unable to use the online system and requiring an accommodation, please email CandidateQuestions@wustl.edu or call 314-935-1149.
Last Date for Apply
Until position filled
Apply Link
