Postdoctoral Research Associate

Position Summary

We are seeking a motivated Postdoctoral Researcher with a strong interest in Membrane Protein Biochemistry and or cryo-EM to join our collaborative research team. Our lab focuses on uncovering the structural and functional mechanisms of membrane proteins, particularly in relation to membrane protein trafficking, signal transduction, and the development of novel therapeutic targets for neurodegenerative diseases and mechanosensation. We also work on advancing cryo-EM and cryo-ET methods to push the boundaries of structural biology.

The Fu Lab, led by Dr. Ziao Fu, focuses on understanding the structural and functional mechanisms of membrane proteins involved in essential cellular processes such as signal transduction, mechanosensation, and membrane trafficking. Our research utilizes advanced cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) and cryo-electron tomography (cryo-ET) techniques to study membrane proteins in their native environments.

Job Description

Primary Duties & Responsibilities:

Information on being a postdoc at Washington University in St. Louis can be found at https://postdoc.wustl.edu/prospective-postdocs-2/.

Trains under the supervision of a faculty mentor including (but not limited to):

• Purify and reconstitute membrane proteins, optimize purification methods, and reconstitute proteins into liposomes for functional studies.
• Design and create protein constructs for expression and labeling, optimize site-specific labeling conditions, and prepare proteins for cryo-EM studies.
• Perform functional assays on reconstituted membrane proteins.
• Use baculovirus systems for protein production, and express and purify nanobodies and antibodies.
• Prepare cryo-EM grids for structural analysis.
• Conduct molecular biology tasks such as PCR and gel electrophoresis, as well as cell culture tasks including transfection and protein expression.
• Utilize biochemistry techniques like affinity chromatography and Western Blotting.
• Implement cryo-EM techniques for studying membrane proteins, including sample preparation, the use of advanced grids, and imaging strategies.
• Contribute to data collection and processing to achieve high-resolution structures.
• Lead and participate in cryo-EM studies focused on membrane proteins and ion channels, exploring structural and conformational changes in various environments.

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 to provide standard care to research animals.

Salary Range

Base pay is commensurate with experience.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by the personnel so classified. Management reserves the right to revise or amend duties at any time.

Required Qualifications

Education:

Ph.D., M.D. Or Equivalent Terminal Or Doctoral Degree.

Certifications:

No specific certification is required for this position.

Work Experience:

No specific work experience is required for this position.

Skills:

Not Applicable

Driver's License:

A driver's license is not required for this position.

More About This Job

Washington University seeks highly motivated individuals who are able to perform duties in a manner consistent with our core mission and guiding principles.

Preferred Qualifications

Education:

No additional education beyond what is stated in the Required Qualifications section.

Certifications:

No additional certification beyond what is stated in the Required Qualifications section.

Work Experience:

No additional work experience beyond what is stated in the Required Qualifications section.

Skills:

Biochemistry, Biophysics, CryoEM, Molecular Biology, Structural Biology

Questions

For frequently asked questions about the application process, please refer to our External Applicant FAQ.

Accommodation

If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email[email protected]or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at 314-935-1149 and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request.

All qualified individuals must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily and, if requested, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship.

Pre-Employment Screening

All external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. The screenings will include criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug screen, an employment and education or licensure/certification verification, physical examination, certain vaccinations and/or governmental registry checks. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening.

Benefits Statement

Washington University in St. Louis is committed to providing a comprehensive and competitive benefits package to our employees. Benefits eligibility is subject to employment status, full-time equivalent (FTE) workload, and weekly standard hours. Please visit our website at https://hr.wustl.edu/benefits/ to view a summary of benefits.

EEO/AA Statement

Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity and especially encourages applications by those from underrepresented groups. It is the University’s policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

Diversity Statement

Washington University is dedicated to building a diverse community of individuals who are committed to contributing to an inclusive environment – fostering respect for all and welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Individuals with a commitment to these values are encouraged to apply.