Postdoctoral Scholar - Molecular Origins of Life

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Job Posting Title:

Postdoctoral Scholar (Molecular Origins of Life)

Position Type:

Other Academic

Department:

LSUAM Science - Chem - Macromolecular (Donghui Zhang (00004090))

Work Location:

0437 Chemistry & Materials Building

Pay Grade:

Other Academic

Job Description:

A Postdoctoral Scholar position is available to work collaboratively with theoretical colleagues to design and conduct experiments that test the FoldCat hypothesis1 and investigate the catalytic potential of primitive coacervates in promoting peptide or nucleic acid elongation. This work will provide important insights into the dynamic mechanisms that may have contributed to the emergence of protein-like sequences and prebiotic coacervates with catalytic functions at the origin of life.

Background: Survival of the Fittest is Darwin’s principle of biological adaptation and evolutionary change, characterized by resourcefulness, self-serving resource use, and increasing fitness.2,3 This project seeks to understand the physical and chemical mechanisms underlying these dynamics and their origins in the emergence of life. The FoldCat hypothesis1 offers a promising mechanism by which out-of-equilibrium synthesis of short random peptides can generate longer, protein-like chains with catalytic activity. We will experimentally test whether this process can produce the double positive feedback required as a precursor to Survival of the Fittest. The project is funded by the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation and entails collaboration between the theory (Ken Dill at SUNY) and experiments (Ronald Zuckermann at LBNL and Donghui Zhang at LSU).

Job Responsibilities:

• 70% Design, synthesize, and characterize random peptoid or peptide copolymers containing hydrophobic (H) and polar (P) monomers; design and execute experiments to establish relationships between HP chain composition and chain length and coacervate formation and stability in the presence of prebiotic molecules; design and evaluate the catalytic activity of HP polymer/prebiotic molecule-based coacervates.

• 20% Prepare research reports; participate in team meetings; and disseminate research findings through conference presentations and publications.

• 10% Ongoing training & development and other duties as designated by the manager.

Minimum Qualifications:

• PhD in polymer chemistry, organic chemistry, materials science, or a related discipline
• Experience in synthesis and structural analysis of self-assembled biomimetic or bioderived polymers.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with polymer synthesis by controlled polymerization, polymer fractionation and characterization, biophysical analysis, and structural characterization.
• Structural characterization of polymer solution by X-ray and light scattering and microscopic imaging techniques.

Job Competencies:

Advanced proficiency in research performance and methods, monomer and polymer synthesis, characterization, and purification, polymer fractionation and separation by recycling SEC, HPLC, and mass spectrometry, and proven ability to communicate results clearly, both orally and in writing.

Additional Job Description:

Special Instructions:

Applicants should submit CV, summary of research experience, three representative publication reprints and at least two references, including from PhD and any previous research.

Copies of transcripts may be attached to the application; however, original transcripts will be required prior to an appointment. If the degree was received outside of the US, a credential evaluation will be required.

This position is considered a research or research-related support position and must undergo screenings per RS 17:1826.

For questions regarding this position, please contact Professor Donghui Zhang, at [email protected].

Skills Needed:

Preferred Skills:

Posting Date:

September 29, 2026

Closing Date (Open Until Filled if No Date Specified):

January 13, 2027

Additional Position Information:

Background Check - An offer of employment is contingent on a satisfactory pre-employment background check.

Benefits - LSU offers outstanding benefits to eligible employees and their dependents including health, life, dental, and vision insurance; flexible spending accounts; retirement options; various leave options; paid holidays; wellness benefits; tuition exemption for qualified positions; training and development opportunities; employee discounts; and more!

Positions approved to work outside the State of Louisiana shall be employed through Louisiana State University’s partner, nextSource Workforce Solutions, for Employer of Record Services including but not limited to employment, benefits, payroll, and tax compliance. Positions employed through Employer of Record Services will be offered benefits and retirement as applicable through their provider and will not be eligible for State of Louisiana benefits and retirement.

Essential Position (Y/N):

LSU is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

All candidates must have valid U.S. work authorization at the time of hire and maintain that valid work authorization throughout employment. Changes in laws, regulations, or government policies may impact the university’s ability to employ individuals in certain positions.

HCM Contact Information: