Post Doctoral Research Associate

Ugajobsearch; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 76,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Georgia, located in Athens, is seeking two Post Doctoral Research Associates to join the Jing Li Lab in the Department of Chemistry. The position focuses on applying molecular dynamics simulations, computational biophysics, and artificial intelligence–based approaches to study ion channels and membrane transporters.

The role offers a fully funded, collaborative environment with mentorship opportunities, opportunities for publications and grant work, and the chance to contribute

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in biophysics, chemistry, biochemistry, computational biology, biomedical sciences, or a closely related field.
• Experience applying AI to develop computational tools or predictive models for scientific research.
• Strong background in molecular dynamics and biomolecular simulations.

Responsibilities

• Design, conduct, and interpret computational research studies.
• Develop and apply molecular dynamics, AI-based workflows, and data analysis.
• Prepare manuscripts for publication and contribute to grant proposals.
• Present findings at meetings and conferences.
• Collaborate with computational and experimental researchers.
• Assist training of graduate and undergraduate students.
• Contribute to workshops and academic service activities.

Skills

Molecular dynamics

Machine learning

AI in research

Biomolecular simulations

Education

Ph.D. in biophysics/chemistry/biochemistry/computational biology or related field

Tools

GROMACS

AMBER

Python

Job description

Post Doctoral Research Associate

Below you will find the details for the position including any supplementary documentation and questions you should review before applying for the opening.

Posting Details

Position Details

Posting Number: G/R34123P

Working Title: Post Doctoral Research Associate

Department: Franklin-Chemistry

About the University of Georgia: Chartered by the state of Georgia in 1785, the University of Georgia is the birthplace of public higher education in America and is the state’s flagship university (https://www.uga.edu/). The proof is in our more than 240 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University’s main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University’s enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly established School of Medicine.

About the College/Unit/Department: Franklin College of Arts and Sciences is the heart of the University of Georgia’s learning environment, advancing new knowledge, research, scholarship and creative output by faculty, students, and staff in more than 80-degree programs across 40+ units. College/Unit/Department website: https://jinglilab.com

Employment Type: Employee

Additional Schedule Information: M-F, 8am-5pm; Evening and weekend work may be needed.

Advertised Salary: Competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience

Anticipated Start Date: 01/01/2027

Posting Date: 07/28/2026

Closing Date: Open Until Filled Yes

Special Instructions to Applicants: Location of Vacancy Athens Area

EEO Statement: The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR ([e-mail]).

USG Core Values Statement: The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 25 institutions of higher education and learning, as well the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 08.02.18.01.02.

Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 06.05 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom.

Duties/Responsibilities

• Design, conduct, analyze, and interpret computational research studies.
• Develop and apply molecular simulation, data-analysis, and machine-learning workflows.
• Prepare manuscripts for publication and contribute to grant proposals.
• Present research findings at group meetings, collaborative meetings, and scientific conferences.
• Collaborate with computational and experimental researchers.
• Assist with training of graduate and undergraduate students.
• Contribute to workshops, scientific presentations, group activities, and other scholarly or professional-service activities.

Percentage of time: 60%

Percentage of time: 15%

Percentage of time: 10%

Percentage of time: 10%

Percentage of time: 5%

Position Details

Position Information

Classification Title: Post-Doctoral Associate AD FLSA Exempt

UGA Job Code: FTE 1.0

Minimum Qualifications

Position Summary: The Jing Li Lab (https://jinglilab.com) in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Georgia is seeking two highly motivated postdoctoral researchers to join our team. These are fully funded positions focused on applying molecular dynamics simulations, computational biophysics, and artificial intelligence–based approaches to investigate the molecular mechanisms and pharmacology of ion channels and membrane transporters.

The successful candidates will study how structural and functional alterations in these membrane proteins contribute to human disease and will help develop computational strategies for therapeutic discovery and drug design.

Our group provides a collaborative, team-oriented research environment with extensive opportunities for scientific mentorship, interdisciplinary collaboration, professional development, and career advancement.

Relevant/Preferred Education, Experience, Licensure, Certification in Position: A Ph.D. degree, completed or expected in the near future, in biophysics, chemistry, biochemistry, computational biology, bioinformatics, biomedical sciences, or a closely related field.

Preferred Skills

• Experience applying artificial intelligence to develop computational tools, predictive models, or analytical frameworks for scientific research.
• Experience with conformational free-energy calculations, such as umbrella sampling, metadynamics, replica-exchange methods, or related enhanced-sampling techniques.
• Experience with multiscale molecular modeling and simulation, particularly coarse-grained simulations.
• Experience studying molecular mechanisms of membrane proteins.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies

• Strong experience in molecular dynamics simulations or machine learning modeling applied to biomolecular systems.
• Demonstrated research productivity, including publications in peer-reviewed journals.
• Strong scientific writing and data-presentation skills.
• Excellent communication skills, ability to work independently, and a collaborative team mindset.

Physical Demands

Is this a Position of Trust? No. Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources? No. Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care? No. Is driving a requirement of this position? No. Does this position have Security Access (e.g., public safety, IT security, personnel records, patient records, or access to chemicals and medications) No.

Background Investigation Policy

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website.

Contact Information

Recruitment Contact

Contact Details: For questions concerning this position or recruitment progression, please refer to the Recruitment Contact listed below.

Recruitment Contact Name: Dr. Jing Li

Recruitment Contact Email: [e-mail]

Recruitment Contact Phone:

Posting Specific Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

Applicant Documents

Required Documents

• Resume/CV
• Cover Letter
• List of References with Contact Information

Optional Documents