Job Description

Position Summary

The Ghanbarpour Laboratory, located in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics at Washington University in St. Louis, School of Medicine, is now recruiting for two exciting postdoctoral positions. Our research is dedicated to understanding the molecular mechanisms of ATP-dependent AAA+ proteolytic machines in both bacterial systems and human mitochondria, exploring how these complexes form and achieve substrate specificity through cryo-EM and cryo-ET structural biology, biochemical assays, mass spectrometry, and cellular assays.

• One position involves exploring the mechanism of substrate specificity for soluble and membrane-bound AAA molecular machines in pathogenic bacteria.
• The other position is for someone with experience in cell biology to elucidate the structure and function of these soluble and membrane-anchored ATP-dependent AAA proteases along with accessory proteins in mitochondria.

As a postdoctoral researcher in our lab, you will gain extensive hands-on experience with cryo-EM and cryo-ET sample preparation and analysis, heterogeneity analysis tools, mass spectrometry, biochemistry, membrane biology, and cellular assays. The role encourages collaborative opportunities both within our department and with external groups. Importantly, you will have the chance to dedicate 20% of your time to an independent project, which could potentially develop into a faculty proposal for academic positions. This role is designed for individuals who are highly motivated and considering a future career in academia or the biotech industry.

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

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

The postdoctoral researcher will train under the supervision of a faculty mentor. Duties and responsibilities include (but are not limited to):

• Managing their own project, which should lead to a first author publication.
• Developing expertise in membrane biology, structural biology, cell biology, microbiology, and mass spectrometry.
• Developing proficiency in career skills, including writing, public speaking, networking, and critical evaluation of scientific literature.
• Presenting scientific work both inside and outside the University with excellent oral communication skills.
• Assisting with grant preparation and reporting.
• Preparing and submitting papers on research with excellent writing skills.
• Designing research experiments.
• Evaluating research findings and reporting results.
• Maintaining conscientious discharge of research responsibilities.
• Conforming to ethical standards in research.
• Maintaining compliance with good laboratory practices including the maintenance of adequate research records.

Required Qualifications

Ph.D., M.D. or equivalent terminal or doctoral degree.

Preferred Qualifications

• Skills in microbiology, cell biology, mass spectrometry, or structural biology.
• Ability to work independently and communicate effectively with laboratory staff and investigators.
• Ability to maintain complete and organized records/reports.
• A working knowledge of computer software and general lab equipment is highly preferred.

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.

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 CandidateQuestions@wustl.edu or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at 314-935-1149 and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request.

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 Universityâ™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 â“ fostering respect for all and welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Individuals with a commitment to these values are encouraged to apply.

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