Research Associate-Fixed Term

Position Summary

A Postdoctoral Research Fellow position is available in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (BMB) at Michigan State University. The fellow will work at the interface of cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) and advanced molecular simulations. The principal project of interest will be the study of small molecule activators of metallopeptidase enzymes. Structural analysis will be used to guide further rational design of newly identified allosteric modulators. This position is funded by an internal fellowship that provides a collaborative and synergistic mentoring environment with two primary PIs. The Postdoctoral Research Fellow will be co-mentored by Dr. Ben Orlando (cryo-EM) and Dr. Alex Dickson (molecular simulation) labs.

Detailed description of work/duties:

• Conduct cryo-EM grid preparation and single-particle cryo-EM analysis on small and dynamic proteins.
• Process cryo-EM data to resolve high-resolution structures and protein conformational states.
• Perform molecular simulations to explore altered protein dynamics and ligand (un)binding properties.
• Integrate structural and computational data to elucidate allosteric mechanisms.
• Collaborate with mentors and research team members in the Orlando and Dickson laboratories.
• Disseminate findings through seminars, conferences, and peer-reviewed publications.

PhD required in field:

Structural biology, biochemistry, computational biology, or a related field.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Degree

Doctorate -Structural Biology, Biochemistry, Computational Biology, or related

Minimum Requirements

• PhD in structural biology, biochemistry, computational biology, or a related field (obtained within the past three years; exceptions with justification).
• Expertise in single particle cryo-EM analysis or molecular simulations as evidenced by authorship on relevant publications.

Desired Qualifications

• Hands-on experience in grid preparation for single-particle cryo-EM analysis.
• Proficiency in cryo-EM data processing and structure determination.
• Experience in molecular dynamics simulations.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team.

Required Application Materials

• Cover letter outlining research experience, interests, and career goals.
• CV highlighting relevant qualifications and publications.
• Contact information for three professional references.

Special Instructions

Submit all application materials in the applicant portal.

Review of applications will begin on 3/01/2025 and will continue on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Review of Applications Begins On

03/01/2025

Remote Work Statement

MSU strives to provide a flexible work environment and this position has been designated as remote-friendly. Remote-friendly means some or all of the duties can be performed remotely as mutually agreed upon.

Website

https://bmb.natsci.msu.edu/

MSU Statement

Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.